UofT under fire over ‘Bridging Theories of Anti-Zionism’ working group
UofT’s new ‘Bridging Theories of Anti-Zionism’ working group has sparked debate over academic inquiry, antisemitism and campus protections for Jewish students.
The University of Toronto (UofT) is facing criticism over the establishment of a new Jackman Humanities Institute working group titled "Bridging Theories of Anti-Zionism." The working group, which will launch for the 2026-27 academic year, aims to explore what it means to critique Zionism as a political ideology and how recent events in Palestine have altered scholarly discussions on the topic.
The group draws upon various academic frameworks, including recent programs like the University of Toronto/Princeton University conference on the Anti-Zionist Idea.
The backlash against the university came following a conference on antisemitism held at the institution, where prominent historian Deborah Lipstadt warned that anti-Zionism often functions as a proxy for traditional antisemitism by denying Jewish self-determination. Security expert Casey Babb criticized the working group, stating that it legitimizes hate and inverts reality, and called on university administrators to address the issue.
UofT President Melanie Woodin defended her leadership but was also criticized for her response. Additionally, the Network of Engaged Canadian Academics (NECA) raised concerns about the working group's approval process and its framing of the Palestinian conflict, arguing that it subverts scholarly standards by beginning with a false statement.
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