As students return to campuses across Montreal for a new academic year, we are reminded of both the opportunities and the challenges that lie ahead. Given the troubling rise in antisemitic incidents on campus since October 7th, we understand the distress this has caused for Jewish students and faculty, and the impact it has had on our community.
Over the course of the summer, we have been preparing for what is sure to be a challenging year. Our Federation CJA on Campus Team has been central to these efforts, planning and implementing a comprehensive strategy to ensure safety, foster resilience, and empower Jewish voices on campus. This dedicated team is committed to being present on the ground, advocating for our students, and providing the necessary support and resources. Your support has been invaluable in this effort, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment.
UNDERSTANDING THE CAMPUS CLIMATE
Since October 7th, we have recorded over 150 incidents of antisemitic and anti-Israel activity across Montreal campuses. These incidents include abuse of podium, verbal harassment, hate speech, exclusionary rhetoric, and physical threats, all of which have contributed to an increasingly toxic atmosphere. As a result, many Jewish students feel unsafe or pressured to hide their identity.
In response, Federation CJA has taken decisive steps to not only support our students but also hold campus administrations accountable.
OUR STRATEGIC RESPONSE: KEY PILLARS OF ACTION
To combat this challenging environment, last academic year, we took immediate steps and implemented a multi-pronged strategy focused on advocacy, safety, empowerment, and coalition building. Now, we are building on those efforts to ensure continued support for our students:
1. Strengthening Campus Advocacy and Leadership
- Expanded Team and Roles: We have bolstered our campus support with four new positions, including a Director of Campus & Advocacy and both a Senior Campus Advocacy Manager and a Campus Advocacy Engagement Associate. This expanded team was established to provide on-the-ground support, guide students through advocacy efforts, and ensure a rapid response to any incidents. Moving forward, this team continues to strengthen our presence and impact on campus.
- Advocacy and Legal Action: We have worked closely with CIJA and the Quebec Jewish Legal Alliance (QJLA) to hold campus administrations accountable. Through proactive monitoring and legal support, we have been addressing incidents of hate speech and bias, ensuring that antisemitic actions are met with firm and clear consequences. We remain committed to these efforts and will continue to take decisive action.
2. Enhancing Safety and Crisis Response
- New Campus Security Measures: In addition to deploying a dedicated security professional on campuses, we are coordinating physical security for events and rallies to protect our students. We’ve also introduced an incident tracking system to identify patterns and respond swiftly. These measures are continuously evaluated and enhanced to adapt to evolving needs.
- Guidance and Support Resources: We have developed comprehensive guides and protocols for students, including clear steps for reporting incidents and understanding their rights. These resources continue to be updated to ensure every Jewish student feels informed and protected.
3. Empowering Jewish Students and Building Resilience
- Student-Led Initiatives and Training: We are empowering students to take leadership roles on campus through the Lev Fellowship, B’Yachad Advocacy Program, the Campus Micro-Grants initiative and Israel Impact Workshops. These programs are focused on building coalitions, developing leadership skills, and fostering a sense of pride and resilience in Jewish identity. We will keep expanding these opportunities for student empowerment and engagement.
- Creating Safe Spaces and Support Networks: We held multiple parlour meetings and launched support networks, such as the Jewish Faculty Network (MANAA), to provide mentorship, build community, and support students in navigating challenges. We are committed to maintaining and growing these networks to strengthen student resilience.
4. Strengthening Community Engagement and Unity
- Building Alliances and Coalitions: Recognizing that addressing campus antisemitism requires collaboration, we are partnering with Jewish and non-Jewish student groups, faculty, and administrators to foster a united front against hate. Our aim is to continue creating a campus environment where all voices are heard and respected.
- Continued Community Events and Cultural Programs: While advocacy remains a priority, we have focused on enriching Jewish life on campus through cultural events, Shabbat dinners, and social gatherings that celebrate Jewish pride and foster connections. These initiatives will remain central to our strategy moving forward.
LOOKING AHEAD: A COMMITMENT TO EMPOWERMENT AND RESILIENCE
Moving forward, our focus is on sustaining momentum and deepening our impact. We will continue to invest in professional development for our staff, strengthen our advocacy efforts, and expand our presence on campus. We are committed to supporting our students in standing up, speaking out, and showing up with pride—advocating for themselves, their community, and Israel. To learn more about this, please join us for our upcoming webinar, on September 9th.
We know these are challenging times, but we remain confident in our community’s strength and resilience. Thanks to your unwavering support, we will continue to empower Jewish students to navigate these challenges with courage and to build a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.
Thank you for standing with us as we work together to make a difference.
Warm regards,
Yair Szlak, LL.B
President and Chief Executive Officer,
Federation CJA
Donate
Subscribe
