Toronto Metropolitan University to form task force on antisemitism

Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is establishing a task force to address antisemitism and political polarization on campus following a report by retired judge Mary Lou Benotto. The 192-page independent review found that while the university possesses adequate disciplinary and operational regulations, it has failed to enforce them consistently and decisively.

The report details a climate where Jewish students have faced harassment, including being spat upon and pelted with sour milk. It also highlights instances of antisemitic or dehumanizing statements made within classrooms and faculty-led seminars. One tenured professor reportedly advised members of the Jewish community to send their children to other institutions instead of TMU due to fears of bullying and assault.

Recent incidents cited include the disruption of a lecture by Evan Solomon by a protester, and a controversial event organized by Students Supporting Israel (SSI-TMU) at an off-campus location after the university denied permission for the event to be held on campus. The Benotto review criticized the university for effectively allowing a ‘heckler’s veto,’ where disruptions dictate who is permitted to speak.