I thought you might all be interested in my communication with the Jewish (by birth) President of U of T. His response or lack thereof speaks volume about his priorities. Good and Evil seem to be of very little consequence for him.
Unapologetic Disregard for Anti-Semitism: President Gertler's Silence Speaks Volumes
I refuse to mince words regarding the abhorrent response—or lack thereof—to concerns raised about anti-Semitism at the University of Toronto.
President Meric Gertler's deafening silence, delegating the response to a subordinate, is an unforgivable display of apathy and cowardice.
President Gertler's Jewish background only intensifies the disgrace of his inaction.
It is an insult to every Jewish student, faculty member, and supporter of our institution that he cannot summon the decency to address anti-Semitism personally.
It is abundantly clear that his priorities lie elsewhere, whether in virtue signalling about pronouns or indulging in performative gestures of reconciliation.
Let me make this abundantly clear: anti-Semitism is not a trivial matter that can be shuffled off to the side.
It is a cancer infecting our community, and President Gertler's failure to confront it head-on is a dereliction of duty.
His negligence is not only shameful but also dangerous, leaving Jewish individuals vulnerable and unprotected.
I demand more than lip service and token gestures.
President Gertler must take immediate, substantive action to eradicate anti-Semitism from our campus. Anything less is an endorsement of hate and an affront to the values of decency and inclusivity.
Regards,
Response from U of T to my initial letter
On Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 01:42:45 p.m. EDT, President <president@utoronto.ca> wrote:
Dear Mr. Benchimol,
Thank you for writing to share your thoughts and concerns with our office.
The University of Toronto condemns antisemitism. We are taking strong action to address it, such asthrough the implementation of the recommendations of the University’s Antisemitism Working Group’s Final report. In line with the report’s recommendations, we are working to educate and empower our community to understand, challenge and speak out against antisemitism, and also against other forms of discrimination and racism, including Islamophobia.
The University is deeply committed to the principles of human rights, equity and inclusion, particularly as they underpin the promotion of debate involving a range of diverse ideas and beliefs. Freedom of speech, academic freedom and the value of human rights are at the heart of the University’s mission. Our commitment to academic freedom and freedom of expression co-exists with a collective duty to protect against hate, harassment, or intimidation.
Please seethis statement from President Gertler about the mission and work of the University during these troubling times.
Again, thank you for reaching out.
Best wishes,
Susanne
SUSANNE MISKIMMIN (she, her)
Manager, Correspondence Unit
Office of the President
University of Toronto
Suite 206, Simcoe Hall
27 King's College Circle
Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1
Office: 416-978-4068
susanne.miskimmin@utoronto.ca
utoronto.ca
Statement of Land Acknowledgement
I wish to acknowledge this land on which the University of Toronto operates. For thousands of years it has been the traditional land of the Huron-Wendat, the Seneca, and the Mississaugas of the Credit. Today, this meeting place is still the home to many Indigenous people from across Turtle Island and we are grateful to have the opportunity to work on this land.
Initial letter sent to Meric Gertler president of U of T
Subject: Concerns Regarding "Hearing Palestine" Document and Academic Integrity
Mr. Gertler,
As a concerned resident of Toronto, I feel compelled to address significant issues regarding the "Hearing Palestine" document recently circulated within academic circles and beyond.
Firstly, I wish to express my deep disappointment regarding the apparent biases and lack of academic integrity evident in the "Hearing Palestine" document. Upon thorough review, it is evident that the study suffers from a lack of objectivity, raising serious questions about the credibility of its findings and the methodologies employed.
The selection of academics involved in the study appears to be questionable, with clear indications of predetermined biases and leanings that cast doubt on the impartiality of the research. It is disheartening to observe how the affiliations and ideological inclinations of these academics have seemingly influenced the study's outcomes, rendering it susceptible to manipulation and distortion of facts.
Furthermore, the reported instances of antisemitism within university classrooms and demonstrations, including the participation of professors in anti-Israel chants, are deeply troubling. Such actions not only undermine the principles of inclusivity and respect upheld by our esteemed institutions but also perpetuate divisiveness and intolerance within our academic community.
In light of these concerns, I urge you to conduct a thorough investigation into the "Hearing Palestine" document and its underlying methodologies. Transparency and accountability are paramount in maintaining the integrity of academic research and ensuring that our educational institutions uphold the highest standards of scholarship and ethical conduct.
Moreover, I implore you to take decisive action to address instances of antisemitism and bias within our academic institutions. It is imperative that measures be implemented to foster an environment of tolerance, diversity, and mutual respect, where differing perspectives are welcomed and constructive dialogue thrives.
I have also taken the liberty of forwarding copies of this letter to the office of the Mayor and the Police Chief, as I believe that addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders involved.
Thank you for your attention to these pressing matters. I remain hopeful that together, we can work towards upholding the values of academic excellence and inclusivity that define our city and its institutions.