A group of prominent filmmakers and writers is demanding the release of two Canadians who have been detained in Egypt since August 16. They announced their demand at a news conference during the Toronto International Film Festival.
Tarek Loubani, a doctor from London, Ontario and John Greyson, a Toronto filmmaker and university professor, were arrested on August 16 amid deadly riots in Cairo. They have yet to face any formal charges.
Loubani was in Egypt to train emergency doctors in Gaza, and Greyson was there to observe and document that work.
Ben Affleck, Alec Baldwin and Julie Christie are among the 311 actors and artists who signed a letter demanding the release of the two Canadians. Prominent Canadians include author Michael Ondaatje and filmmakers Atom Egoyan and Sarah Polley. More than 100,000 people have signed an on-line petition.
Artists who spoke at the news conference said the arrest of the men is an affront to the principles of freedom of speech and expression, values held dear by those who participate in Toronto Film Festival.
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