Toronto’s York University and the York Federation of Students are facing a class action lawsuit claiming that Jewish students have experienced decades of antisemitism on campus. The lawsuit, filed by current students, alumni, and attendees from 1998-2021, alleges that Jewish students felt unsafe, harassed, and even forced to hide their Jewish identity, while no action was taken to ensure their safety. The plaintiffs argue that the university and the student union failed to address antisemitic incidents, violating their own non-discrimination policies. They also claim that staff were provided insufficient training on handling harassment.
According to Sandra Zisckind, managing partner of the law firm Diamond and Diamond, which filed the statement of claim, the university and the student union fostered an environment of hate and antisemitism against Jewish students. She argues that the university and the union were aware of these actions but failed to take action, leading to an unsafe learning environment for Jewish students.
In response, York University stated that they condemn all forms of discrimination and hate, including antisemitism and Islamophobia. They affirmed their commitment to providing inclusive campus environments where community members feel safe and welcomed without fear of intimidation or harassment.
The lawsuit cites several incidents to support the claims of antisemitism on campus. It mentions an anti-Israel mural titled “Palestinian Roots” displayed at the entrance to the student centre. The mural depicts a figure holding rocks and wearing a scarf with a Palestinian flag. The court documents argue that historically, rocks have been used to perpetuate violence against Israelis.
The lawsuit also refers to an incident in 2009 where Jewish students were forced to hide in the Hillel student organization office due to an antisemitic protest. During the protest, Jewish students were singled out and pursued by a mob of over 100 students. The protesters also banged on the glass doors of the Hillel office. The court documents argue that Jewish students faced exclusion from student organizations, were not given a safe space to voice their opinions, and had their opinions minimized or dismissed in classroom settings.
The lawsuit comes in the wake of several York University student unions issuing a letter praising a Hamas attack on Israel. The student unions expressed their support for the Palestinian people and their fight against settler-colonialism, apartheid, and genocide. The university condemned the letter and called on the groups to clarify their position and reaffirm their commitment to non-violence and the safety of all members. The student unions responded by saying their original statement was distorted and denied calling for violence. They asserted their commitment to opposing colonial violence and criticized the university for attacking student union autonomy.
The class action lawsuit alleges that the university’s failure to address antisemitism and the student unions’ support for a Hamas attack demonstrate a disregard for the safety and well-being of Jewish students.