The leader of the U.S.-based New Black Panther Party, whose invitation to Toronto angered Jewish groups, was denied entry into the country Tuesday morning, the Black Youth Taking Action said.

Malik Zulu Shabazz was denied entry by customs officials apparently because of a minor criminal record — a misdemeanour five years ago, members of the group told reporters.

They said they invited Shabazz to speak on issues such as establishing black-focused schools and changing curriculums to include contributions by black people.

Shabazz had been scheduled to attend a rally in front of the Ontario legislature Tuesday afternoon and deliver a lecture at Ryerson University later in the day.

The group held a raucous and angry news conference at Ryerson, lashing out at what they said was the role of the  "Jewish lobby" in keeping Shabazz out of the country.

Both B'nai Brith and the Canadian Jewish Congress lobbied hard to keep Shabazz out, saying he has a history of hateful and intolerant views.