Legal group apologizes after cancellation of noted Syrian Canadian’s speech sparks ‘profound’ reaction [Video]

A prominent Canadian legal association is apologizing after it cancelled a keynote speech by Syrian Canadian entrepreneur and peace advocate Tareq Hadhad, prompting sharp criticism from many of its members.

Last Friday, CBC News was first to report that The Advocates’ Society rescinded an invitation for Hadhad, founder of Peace by Chocolate, to deliver a keynote speech, saying some members expressed concerns about his position on Israel’s war in Gaza.

Now, the organization says it’s acknowledging the “profound reactions” surrounding its decision. 

“Our members have expressed deep concerns with the way our decisions were made, the basis for them and with the lack of diverse consultation in our deliberations,” it said in a statement Friday.

“We hear you. We are sorry and regret the harm we have caused,” it said, adding “through these decisions and related communications we have not fully lived up to our mission and core values.”

CBC …