University presidents stand by their efforts to combat antisemitism on campus

The presidents of four Canadian universities defended their institutions’ efforts to combat antisemitism on their campuses Monday after months of claims that Jewish students have suffered from threats and discrimination.

Graham Carr, president and vice-chancellor of Concordia University, addressed a committee of MPs, acknowledging the challenges faced by some members of the community due to acts of contempt, intolerance, and hate. He highlighted incidents on campus, including a violent altercation between students with opposing views on the war in Gaza and the targeting of Jewish students by pro-Palestinian protesters.

Carr emphasized the university’s commitment to combating antisemitism and all forms of hate, noting the establishment of a task force on racism and identity-based violence to deliver actionable recommendations in the near future. However, Conservative MP Melissa Lantsman pressed Carr on the lack of expulsions or suspensions in connection with these events, accusing university officials of failing to keep Jewish students safe.

The presidents of McGill University, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia also testified about the rising incidents of antisemitism on their campuses since the eruption of war in the Middle East. University of Toronto president Meric Gertler admitted to a growing presence of antisemitism at the institution and mentioned instances of suspension and expulsion related to recent actions and protests.

At McGill University, president and vice-chancellor Deep Saini discussed protest behavior that crossed the line, leading to court injunctions and police involvement. The university has implemented support services for Jewish students and launched an online portal to report harassment and intimidation anonymously.

University of British Columbia president Benoit-Antoine Bacon highlighted enhanced security measures and engagement with Jewish student groups to address antisemitism on campus. Toronto Police Service Deputy Chief Robert Johnson also appeared before the committee, recommending a standardized definition of hate crime and cultural sensitivity training for police officers.

Overall, the university presidents and law enforcement officials emphasized the importance of addressing antisemitism and hate crimes on Canadian campuses through proactive measures, support services, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies. They called for a better understanding of hate crimes and a national strategy to combat discrimination against Jewish Canadians.