"Your willingness to revisit initial assumptions is a commendable example of responsible journalism. As Hadi Hassan, a journalist with TVA reported, a tear gas grenade—a SKAT SHELL CS cartridge deployed by police—likely caused the vehicle fire. Video evidence and images by the reporter supports this possibility, and the SPVM itself stated the incident is under investigation."
November 28, 2024
To:
Marilena Lucci, Editor-in-Chief, Montreal Gazette
Jeff Blond, Managing Editor, Montreal Gazette
Harry North, Reporter, Montreal Gazette
Dear Ms. Lucci, Mr. Blond, and Mr. North,
I am writing on behalf of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (CJPME) to express my appreciation to The Gazette for publishing the article titled “Montreal police backtrack on who caused fires during Friday's protest,” on November 25, 2024.
The article provides important clarification on the uncertainty surrounding the vehicle fires during last Friday’s anti-Nato protest, emphasizing that the cause remains under investigation.
Your willingness to revisit initial assumptions is a commendable example of responsible journalism. As Hadi Hassan, a journalist with TVA reported, a tear gas grenade—a SKAT SHELL CS cartridge deployed by police—likely caused the vehicle fire. Video evidence and images by the reporter supports this possibility, and the SPVM itself stated the incident is under investigation.
In a time when allegations are often presented as facts, your decision to revisit these claims highlights the importance of verifying information before publication, ensuring responsible reporting and fostering trust in the media.
Please continue to uphold these high standards of accuracy and fairness, particularly when covering contentious and polarizing issues.
Warmest regards,
Lynn Naji
Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East