 Arar
A Canadian who became the focal point for human rights abuses in the aftermath of 9/11 is coming to campus this month as part of the President’s Distinguished Lectures series.
When wireless-technology consultant Maher Arar was returning home to Canada from a family vacation in 2002, he was detained by US authorities and interrogated about alleged links to al-Qaeda. Twelve days later, he was chained, shackled and flown to Syria, where he was imprisoned, beaten, tortured and forced to make a false confession.
 Mazigh
During his imprisonment, Arar’s wife, Dr. Monia Mazigh, campaigned relentlessly on his behalf until he was returned to Canada in October 2003. On Sept. 18, 2006, a federal commission of inquiry cleared Arar of all terrorism allegations.
On March 11, Arar, Mazigh and Arar commission fact-finder, human rights law scholar and UBC President Stephen Toope will discuss the Arar case and the lessons that its holds for the future. The panel discussion, entitled “Civil Liberties and National Security,” will be moderated by UVic Law Dean Andrew Petter.
 Toope
This President’s Distinguished Lecture will take place at 8 p.m. in the University Centre Farquhar Auditorium. Although this event is free of charge, seating is reserved, and tickets should be booked in advanced through the UVic Ticket Centre, 721-8480 or www.uvic.ca. For more information about Arar visit his website www.maherarar.ca.
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