Our movement for peace and justice in Israel-Palestine is currently facing unprecedented attack by right-wing pro-Israel groups. No longer able to defend Israel’s record, these lobby groups have ramped up their efforts to silence defenders of Palestinian human rights.
Their weapon of choice is the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism (for details see www.noihra.ca). Armed with this definition, they intend to brand our criticism of Israel’s policies and certain types of solidarity work–i.e. the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement–as antisemitic.
Despite actual growing antisemitism among white supremacists–who have killed in Berlin, Pittsburgh and San Diego–it’s anti-racists who are being portrayed as the real threats. As absurd as it is, it’s having major consequences in the U.K., in the U.S., in Germany, and now in Canada, too.
Our Federal Government has already adopted the IHRA redefinition as part of its “anti-racism strategy” and lobby groups are working to have it adopted by provinces, municipalities, police forces and universities from coast to coast. If we’re going to stop the IHRA definition from being adopted by institutions across the country–as it has in the U.K.–we need to seriously boost our capacity.
This is why we’re asking you to please donate now.
As a major progressive Jewish group and Palestine solidarity organization, we are taking this battle head on. With members, supporters and chapters in cities and university campuses across the country, we have the reach to put a stop to the IHRA definition’s adoption from Victoria to St. John’s.
This year we’re being ambitious. IJV needs to bring in $50k during this year’s Annual Fundraising Drive to help achieve our goals, and we need your support like never before.
We are in the midst of a period of extraordinary changes. The rise of progressive political voices like yours has breathed new life into our movement. Independent Jewish Voices is excited to assume our great responsibility. With a new minority government about to take power, this is the time to make our mark and influence both Canadian policy and public opinion on Israel-Palestine.
Thanks in advance for the support!
Questions? Please contact membership@ijvcanada.org