"Your article sheds light on the difficulties of family members from Gaza currently stranded in Egypt, facing the imminent expiration of their legal status, dwindling finances, and silence from the Canadian government despite their families' investment in the temporary visa program. Your coverage underscores the uncertainty and frustration faced by numerous families concerning their acceptance into the program and the lengthy processing times."
March 12, 2024
To:
Laura Osman, Reporter, The Canadian Press
Sarah Smellie, Reporter, The Canadian Press
Dear Laura Osman and Sarah Smellie,
I am writing on behalf of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (CJPME) to thank you for a recent article titled “Families who rescued loved ones from Gaza feel 'scammed' by Canadian government,” published on March 11 by The Canadian Press.
Your article sheds light on the difficulties of family members from Gaza currently stranded in Egypt, facing the imminent expiration of their legal status, dwindling finances, and silence from the Canadian government despite their families' investment in the temporary visa program. Your coverage underscores the uncertainty and frustration faced by numerous families concerning their acceptance into the program and the lengthy processing times.
By further describing and referring to testimonies about the worsening conditions faced by Gazan families, who have been grappling with constant threats of bombardment and starvation, you demonstrate how the Canadian government’s false promises only worsen their plight.
Thank you for shedding light on the struggles of Palestinian families and prioritizing their perspectives, as their voices deserve continued recognition and support.
Sincerely,
Mary Ann Matta,
Media Analyst, Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East