The Story of Concordia University: A Reflection of Global Campus Challenges

The Story of Concordia University: A Reflection of Global Campus Challenges


Yoseph Haddad
Israeli Arab
"The events unfolding at Concordia University provide a troubling glimpse into the challenges faced not only in Canada but across many campuses worldwide. They reveal how extremist and violent minorities are sometimes allowed to dominate, suppress free speech, and silence voices that challenge their narrative.

This month, as part of my public relations trip in Canada, I was invited to Concordia University for an internal event. The plan was simple: I would meet students at the campus entrance, engage in a dialogue, and answer their questions face-to-face. However, the day before the event, the university administration—under pressure from anti-Israel activists—decided to cancel it, effectively suppressing freedom of expression on campus.

Despite the cancellation, the pro-Israel student club that invited me decided, in consultation with me, not to back down. We went ahead and arrived at the scheduled location. As soon as we did, a counter-demonstration by anti-Israel activists erupted. The scene quickly became hostile, with curses, threats, and intimidation aimed at us. Yet, we stood firm, holding a peaceful demonstration without resorting to insults or threats. Our most "provocative" act? Singing "Am Yisrael Chai."

What followed was even more astonishing. The university’s department overseeing student clubs decided to punish the pro-Israel club by revoking its recognition as a student organization. This decision stripped the club of its rights and resources on campus. Their offense? Daring to express a pro-Israel perspective. Meanwhile, the anti-Israel demonstration—despite its incitement, curses, and overtly antisemitic rhetoric—was deemed acceptable.

Adding insult to injury, the committee responsible for this decision included members whose objectivity could be questioned. Notably, the mother tongue of some—including the chairman—was Arabic, raising concerns about potential bias in their rulings.

When the pro-Israel club sought legal recourse, the university took unprecedented measures to justify its actions. It retroactively amended its constitution to align with its steps, even falsely claiming these changes predated the events. Fortunately, legal proceedings have temporarily delayed the enforcement of the decision against the club.

This episode is emblematic of a broader, deeply concerning trend—the rise of "cancel culture" on campuses, where voices supporting Israel or offering alternative perspectives are silenced. As an Israeli Arab advocating for Israel, I experienced firsthand the hostility and institutional bias that make it nearly impossible to foster open dialogue.

When I tried to engage with the university dean to understand why my event was canceled, she refused to engage, avoiding even eye contact before hastily walking away. This is not just a failure of leadership; it is a surrender to extremist agendas.

Concordia University is not alone. Across the world, campuses are becoming battlegrounds where pro-Israel students face isolation, discrimination, and personal attacks. They lack support—both from their home countries and from Israel—and are left to confront extremism and biased institutions on their own.

I want to express my deep admiration for these brave students. Their resilience and dedication inspire me. But they must not be left to fight this battle alone. The encroachment of anti-Israel activism in academia is not accidental—it is the result of years of concerted effort. This "virus" has deeply infiltrated universities, influencing discourse and silencing dissent.

The time has come for the State of Israel to take a more active role in supporting students abroad and combating this toxic culture. We cannot afford to neglect the battle for hearts and minds on campuses.

Together, we must ensure that the voices of truth and peace are not drowned out by intimidation and hate."

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Yoseph Haddad •

This is what an Israeli partnership looks like!
While antisemitic terror supporters and radicalized immigrants are vandalizing Jewish symbols, here in Nazareth, Israel - one of the largest Arab cities in the country, Jewish symbols are being respected.
This year, a Hanukkah menorah has been placed next to the traditional Christmas tree.
Proud of my city! Everyone is welcome to visit!