By Canadian Press

NDP membership wades into debate over controversial definition of anti-Semitism

Mar 19, 2021 | 11:38 AM

OTTAWA — A debate over the definition of anti-Semitism has spilled over to the federal New Democrats ahead of the party convention next month.

Nearly 50 NDP riding associations have endorsed a motion that opposes a working definition of anti-Semitism set out by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.

Critics of the definition say it chills legitimate criticism of Israeli policy, while backers say it crystallizes understandings of anti-Semitism, which they say includes demonization of the Jewish state.

Canada adopted the definition as part of the federal government’s anti-racism strategy in 2019, one of more than two dozen countries to enshrine the non-legally binding parameters.

B’nai Brith Canada is calling on NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh to ensure resolutions against the definition are rejected.

roster shakeup

Nanaimo Clippers lose two major players to Major Junior ranks

1h ago

armed robbery

Knife-wielding man robs south Nanaimo liquor store

9h ago

Shorthanded

Clippers fall short hosting Bulldogs

16h ago

Independent Jewish Voices Canada is asking party members to support such resolutions as a way to fight anti-Semitism and show solidarity with the Palestinian people.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 19, 2021.

The Canadian Press