"For her children’s books to be removed from the public shelves of a local Jewish Public Library on grounds of antisemitism is yet another disappointing example of the career costs of expressing Palestinian solidarity. I hope this decision will be reversed, as any child has likely left the library more informed, conscious, and accepting after reading one of her books."
February 7, 2024
We’ve seen students, professors, doctors, and lawyers receive a barrage of criticism for expressing their solidarity for Palestine since Israel launched its military campaign in Gaza. While dismissals or suspensions for making comments related to Palestinian solidarity are utterly unjustified in university and professional settings, I am particularly troubled by the pro-Israel lobby’s most recent target: artists. I have long admired Elise Gravel's colorful, imaginative, and well-informed presence in the Montreal art scene. While remaining playful and creative, her work has always prioritized social justice. From publishing a book titled “What is a Refugee?” to creating infographics about accepting yourself for who you are and showing support for local teachers and healthcare strikes, her support for Palestinian liberation does not come as a surprise. For her children’s books to be removed from the public shelves of a local Jewish Public Library on grounds of antisemitism is yet another disappointing example of the career costs of expressing Palestinian solidarity. I hope this decision will be reversed, as any child has likely left the library more informed, conscious, and accepting after reading one of her books.
Rose Mardikian
Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (CJPME)