Figures who justified October 7 advised CMHR Nakba exhibit, B'nai Brith finds - exclusive

A new report by B’nai Brith Canada reveals that several individuals involved in shaping the "Palestine Uprooted: Nakba Past and Present" exhibit at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) have either justified or minimized the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. This finding comes amid growing scrutiny over the exhibit's portrayal of the conflict and the affiliations of those advising its creation. The report highlights concerns about potential biases and the inclusion of individuals whose public statements align with antisemitic narratives or downplay Hamas' actions. The exhibit, which opened on June 27, 2026, aims to highlight the experiences of Palestinian Canadians regarding displacement during the Arab-Israeli conflict. However, critics argue that it fails to adequately address the nature of Hamas as a terrorist organization. One plaque references the October 7 attack without explicitly labeling Hamas as such, stating, “Following the Hamas attack that killed about 1,200 people on October 7, 2023.” Another plaque describes the Second Intifada as a “Palestinian uprising” without mentioning the over 1,000 Israelis who were killed during that period. B’nai Brith Canada conducted an extensive review of the exhibit’s content and the individuals involved in its development. Among those identified are members of the Canadian Palestinian Association of Manitoba (CPAM), including Rana Abdulla and Ramsey Zeid. CPAM, which claims to have contributed to the exhibit through the Palestinian Content Advisory Network (PCAN), has been linked to statements that B’nai Brith considers antisemitic or supportive of violence. Ramsey Zeid, CPAM’s president, posted on Instagram in October 2024 that Palestinians had the right to conduct the October 7 attack. In May 2024, CPAM encouraged followers to stop condemning the attack. Additionally, CPAM shared content suggesting that Israeli hostages were treated well, implying that they almost appeared to be returning from a vacation rather than captivity. B’nai Brith criticized these statements for minimizing Hamas' documented violence against civilians and reflecting a double standard in how Israeli and Palestinian prisoner experiences are portrayed. CPAM also posted a graphic in April 2024 alleging that Israeli forces had stolen organs from dead Palestinians in Gaza. According to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), this claim falls under the category of antisemitism known as a blood libel. Zeid himself has made similar allegations, posting in December 2025 that Israelis steal land, lives, and organs. B’nai Brith Canada has called for greater transparency regarding the involvement of individuals who have endorsed or minimized Hamas' actions in the development of the exhibit. They argue that such associations undermine the museum’s credibility and impartiality. The organization emphasized that those who publicly support or downplay Hamas' violent acts should not hold advisory roles in creating a national human rights exhibit. The controversy surrounding the exhibit underscores broader tensions between Israel and parts of Europe following the October 7 attacks. Relations between Israel and several European Union member states have deteriorated due to disagreements over issues such as Gaza, humanitarian access, settlements, and the recognition of a Palestinian state. At the same time, Jewish communities in Europe have faced a surge in antisemitic incidents, further straining ties. Despite these challenges, many Israelis remain drawn to Europe. There is continued demand for citizenship in EU member states, and European universities attract numerous Israeli students. The EU remains Israel’s largest trading partner, and millions of Israelis travel across the continent annually. This complex relationship reflects both the political tensions and the enduring appeal of European institutions and opportunities. The findings related to the CMHR exhibit add another layer to the discussion about the influence of European institutions and the need for transparency in cultural and educational initiatives. As the situation evolves, the responses from the CMHR, CPAM, and other stakeholders will be crucial in determining the future direction of the exhibit and its impact on public perception of the conflict.