Federation CJA and CIJA are aware and deeply concerned about a proposed policy that the Student Society of McGill University (SSMU) voted on yesterday in its Fall 2023 referendum entitled “Policy Against Genocide in Palestine”, a policy which has yet to be ratified. 

 

Results released by the SSMU show 78% (or 5,974) voted in favour and 21% (1,620) voted against. 8,400 students voted in total, representing 35% of all eligible voters. 807 students abstained from voting on the question.

 

We are concerned the proposed policy’s characterization of Israel’s defensive measures in the aftermath of the Oct.  7 terrorist attack as a “genocide,” will contribute to the already alarming levels of antisemitism we’ve seen on university campuses across Montreal. The proposed policy’s language also invokes the antisemitic blood-libel trope.  

 

From the onset and an ongoing basis, Federation CJA and CIJA, through our constant engagement on multiple levels with the university administration and other stakeholders, have expressed our deep apprehension about these developments. We will continue to engage as the situation evolves with a particular focus on ensuring the university grasps the gravity of the situation on campus and its impact on our students.  

 

Many students and parents have shared with us the incredible toll these campaigns take on their mental health and well-being. That’s why our team has prioritized ensuring the SSMU and McGill University respect their obligations to protect the mental and physical well-being of students on campus. Both are also obligated to ensure educational institutions remain places where Jewish students can study, learn, and engage freely without fear.

 

Nonetheless, there have been some recent positive developments reflective of our community’s strength and unity. First, we saw an inspiring grassroots campaign collect nearly 5,000 signatures for a petition that called upon McGill University to step in and block the referendum.

 

Second, we’ve learned today that a court has imposed a temporary order preventing the proposed policy’s ratification for the time being. This injunction, along with the University’s previous warning to the SSMU about the proposed policy’s potential impact on its existing agreement with the student union signal it will be more challenging than expected for those who wish to bring this toxic policy to campus.

 

In any case, Federation CJA and CIJA are actively following this situation and will update the community with developments as they unfold. Hillel and CIJA professionals have worked relentlessly around the clock with students to address these sorts of issues on campus. They will continue to do so going forward.  

 

We are all privileged to work with incredible students who continue to inspire us with their dedication, intelligence and determination in facing these challenges. There's no doubt that together we can ensure the continuity of strong Jewish life on campus. 

 

Call to Action: We strongly urge you to engage with this matter by contacting the Principal of McGill University. 

 

Yair Szlak President & CEO Federation CJA

Eta Yudin Vice President, Quebec CIJA