Public Statement by Laidlaw Foundation on the Current Situation in Gaza

Laidlaw Foundation stands with a deep sense of concern as we witness the brutality and ongoing violence from the occupation in Gaza. We are particularly troubled by the reaction of Canadian institutions towards individuals openly criticizing the escalating military operations in Palestine. Such responses jeopardize the fundamental principles that lie at the heart of Canadian society—the right to freedom of expression. These actions undermine the very values that we hold dear and that serve as cornerstones of our democratic societies. We bring attention to three interrelated issues, which profoundly resonate with our mission and vision to support young people impacted by the justice, education, and child welfare systems:

1. Silencing of Young People:

We are troubled by the systemic and excessive silencing of young voices across campuses and schools in Canada. At present, a concerning crackdown on freedom of expression is unfolding in various public institutions. Universities, as hubs of intellectual discourse, should champion open debates on global issues. It is imperative that these institutions actively support students engaged in understanding and addressing the world around them.

Furthermore, we are alarmed by the reprisals and punishments faced by students expressing a call to end genocide in Palestine or participating in solidarity demonstrations advocating for an immediate ceasefire. Labeling these demonstrations as hate rallies not only stifles legitimate discourse but poses a significant threat to the principles of freedom of expression and the freedom of peaceful assembly (Charter of Rights and Freedom, under Section 2). Across the country, individuals expressing sympathy for Palestine are encountering unprecedented persecution, risking their livelihoods and education for voicing their opinions. The recent incident at the Toronto Metropolitan University’s Lincoln Alexander School of Law, where students faced consequences for signing an open letter, serves as a stark illustration of this disturbing trend.

2. Influence of Donors and Philanthropists:

Laidlaw strongly objects to the undue influence exercised by donors and philanthropists, pressuring universities and cultural institutions to restrain debate. The notion that external forces can dictate the narrative within academic and cultural spaces raises serious concerns about academic freedom and intellectual autonomy. The recent case of Wanda Nanibush’s departure from the AGO, its first Indigenous curator for expressing sympathy toward Palestinians underscores the need to reevaluate the ethical implications of such external pressures on institutions.

3. Combating Hate and Racism:

Laidlaw Foundation condemns all forms of racism and violence, including anti-Palestinian racism, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia. We firmly believe that calling for a ceasefire should not be met with hate or discrimination. It’s important to emphasize that advocating for a permanent and indefinite ceasefire is also not synonymous with being anti-Semitic, despite the correlation frequently drawn by certain media outlets. It is, in fact, a heartfelt plea to prioritize and value human life above all else. Our commitment to human rights, justice, and liberation impels us to support the self-determination of Palestinians and condemn the ongoing occupation.

Laidlaw Foundation believes it is crucial to uphold the principles of freedom of expression, academic freedom, and the right to express solidarity without fear of reprisals. We remain dedicated to fostering an environment where young people are engaged and empowered in decision-making and to advocate for systems change.

Laidlaw invites its community members to:

For further inquiries or information, please contact Laidlaw Foundation at [email protected].

Table of Contents

Public Statement by Laidlaw Foundation on the Current Situation in Gaza

1. Silencing of Young People:

2. Influence of Donors and Philanthropists:

3. Combating Hate and Racism:

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