"The IHRA includes includes statements like 'denying the Jewish people the right to self-determination,' 'claiming that the existence of Israel is a racist endeavor,' holding Israel to a standard 'not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation.'"
"In other words, the IHRA definition explicitly conflates criticism of Israel with anti-Semitism."
"This is about targeting critics of Israel & pro-Palestinian activists, especially those on university campuses. Supporters have been quite clear on this point, suggesting, for example, that universities should use the new definition to censure and silence popular campus events."
"Liberal MP Anthony Housefather said communities might consider the IHRA definition when deciding to let critics of Israel use their facilities. Others are urging unis to incorporate it into anti-discrimination policies, where it can be used to discipline faculty & students."
"Since 2017, student govs at Ryerson U and McGill U have adopted the IHRA definition and incorporated it into their anti-discrimination policies. In theory, this will allow them to deny critics of Israel access to certain resources (e.g. room rentals, advertising space, etc.)."
"Something similar has already happened at the U Winnipeg, which in Feb 2018 hosted a conference...where some speakers accused Israel of committing 'genocide' against Palestinians and referred to Israeli Jews as 'European settlers.'"
"Under strong pressure from pro-Israel groups, U of W apologized for the conference and, citing the IHRA definition, declared these statements to be a violation of the institution’s anti-harassment policy."
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