Province investing in program intended to eliminate antisemitism in schools

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Published July 5, 2021 at 6:04 pm

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The Government of Ontario has announced a new initiative intended to help combat antisemitism in Canadian schools and communities.

As part of the program, the Province will be investing $327,000 to provide training initiatives and resources for educators, and supports for students to combat antisemitism.

According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, in 2019, there were 296 crimes targeting members of the Jewish community reported to police—the most among any religious group.

Additionally, as part of the Safe Return to Class fund, the Province is providing the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies with $327,000 in funding to support two summer learning programs.

The ‘Unpacking Intolerance: Equity and Diversity Training for Educators’ program will provide professional development sessions for educators to help them learn about dismantling systems of oppression and antisemitism in homes, schools, and communities.

While the ‘Tour for Humanity Virtual Summer Camp,’ will help students learn about human rights, dealing with injustice, and encourage ideas for creating positive change.

“Antisemitism is a scourge and historic evil that must be eradicated from our schools, from our communities, and from the hearts of all Canadians,” Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, said in a news release.

“We will fight antisemitism with every tool available to us to ensure Jewish students feel safe and supported in Ontario schools,” he continued. “That is why we are partnering with the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies to strengthen training for educators and supports for students, with the aim of promoting respect for all students, irrespective of their faith or heritage.”

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