Toronto Activist Jehad Aliweiwi endorses Brian Topp

TORONTO—NDP federal leadership candidate Brian Topp today welcomed the support of Jehad Aliweiwi, a leading activist in Toronto's immigrant communities. 

Mr. Aliweiwi said Brian Topp can best lead the NDP as it takes the next steps to replace the Harper Tories in 2015.

"With deep roots across the country and a unique grasp of the national agenda, Brian Topp represents the most competent, principled and pragmatic option not only to lead the NDP but to become the next Prime Minister of Canada," Mr. Aliweiwi said.

"Brian embodies the spirit of hope and optimism bequeathed us by Jack Layton. For that and more, I am, without hesitation, endorsing Brian for the leadership of the New Democratic Party of Canada."

"Jehad's leadership work with social and immigrant services in Canada's most multicultural city reflects his long time commitment to our party's principles," said Topp. "I'm proud to welcome his support in our campaign for a more equitable and fair NDP federal government."

Jehad Aliweiwi is a former executive director of the Canadian Arab Federation. He has held senior leadership positions with social and immigrant service organizations for more than 15 years and serves on a number of volunteer boards and city-building initiatives. He is the 2010 Canadian Urban Institute’s Local Hero Award recipient. He has also been co-chair of the Ontario NDP's Ethnic Liaison Committee and a vice-president of the provincial party.

—30—