Dr. Eva Marcu Lonn, 63, is the medical director of cardiac health and rehabilitation at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. She is also a professor of medicine at the university’s medical school and a senior scientist at the university’s Population Health Research Institute (PHRI).
Lonn earned her medical degree at the Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School in Jerusalem, Israel. On October 7, 2023, an armed conflict broke out between Israel and Palestinian militants led by Hamas from the Gaza Strip.
On October 28, 2023, the New York Post shared on LinkedIn its article about the 7,000 pro-Palestinian protesters who shot down the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, New York, United States that day. Lonn commented on the LinkedIn post, “Deport them all to where they came from”.
Lonn’s comment backfired on her so on November 3, 2023, she posted on Twitter an apology letter. Here is what she said:
I am deeply sorry for the pain my recent comments on social media have caused and wholeheartedly apologize. My comment, “deport them all to where they came from”, was made in the heat of the moment and without adequate consideration of the broader implications; while my intention was to condemn the actions of those individuals reported by NYPost.com who supported violent means and made very hurtful remarks towards Jewish people, I realize now how my words can be misconstrued and the negative implications they carry. I should have been more thoughtful and sensitive in expressing my feelings. The recent global events surrounding Israel and Palestine have been deeply personal for me given my Jewish heritage and my family ties to Israel. In fact, I was visiting family in Israel when the current conflict erupted and returned to Canada deeply traumatized. However, I do realize that this does not excuse the pain my statements have caused.
Throughout my medical practice and academic career, I have been privileged to serve a diverse community. I deeply value the diversity community. I deeply value the diversity of my patients, colleagues, students, trainees and staff and I pride myself on the relationships I’ve built with people of all backgrounds and faiths, including many within the Muslim community.
I want to affirm, unequivocally, my commitment to respect and acceptance for all peaceful individuals, irrespective of religion, race, social status and sexual or political orientation.
Like all of you, I am deeply concerned with the ongoing crisis in Israel and the Gaza Strip and my thoughts and prayers go out to all involved.
I sincerely hope that through understanding and open dialogue, we can come together and heal and hopefully soon achieve peace in the region.
CONAN Daily 