TORONTO – Both York University and University of Toronto (U of T) have been taking complaints about antisemitism seriously during this school year, following up with a proactive approach.
At U of T, following allegations of antisemitic rhetoric being tolerated in a classroom in the faculty of social work, “the dean spoke to the instructor and let her know it was unacceptable, and then embarked on a whole series of events in the faculty to ensure it doesn’t happen again,” Robert Steiner, U of T’s assistant vice-president and spokesperson, told the Jewish Tribune. There were several meetings – some just with staff; some for students, and others for both combined – focusing on antisemitism, racism in general and the importance of inclusiveness, and more are scheduled for March, he said. “All of this is a result of the allegations.”
York University has also taken important steps this year to ensure respectful debate and the safety of its students on campus, said Alex Bilyk, York University’s director of media relations.
According to a press release issued by Hasbara Fellowships at York University, the group “commends York University for their swift investigation into…[an] incident where [allegedly] two Jewish students were assaulted in Vari Hall on Feb. 1, 2010.”
Bilyk said that although Hasbara did not wish to involve the police when filing its initial complaint, “we viewed [a tape of the incident] for our own peace of mind. If we had felt there was a physical safety issue, we would have filed a police report.”
