"The definition of anti-semitism mentioned in the article is the IHRA definition which is highly problematic and contested, even by Jewish groups. This IHRA definition should be referenced with caution even though the Canadian government has adopted it for now. A more acceptable definition is the Jerusalem Declaration which is worth ingesting for future reference."
To the CP and CTV newsrooms,
I am writing regarding the article “NDP leader Lewis criticized for saying Jews 'failed to do our part' to stop Gaza war” published on September 21.
This article revolves around an interpretation of Mr. Lewis’ post on X from Sunday. I find the reaction to his post by Ben Carr and Anthony Housefather to be either hysterical or in bad faith. Either way their responses are given more weight than they deserve. It’s entirely predictable that these 2 politicians would respond so unreasonably - they both have a history of supporting Israel no matter what it does. This includes supporting the genocide Israel is currently inflicting on Palestianins in Gaza and the West Bank. Mr. Lewis’ rebuttal to their supposed indignation is well placed in the report.
The definition of anti-semitism mentioned in the article is the IHRA definition which is highly problematic and contested, even by Jewish groups. This IHRA definition should be referenced with caution even though the Canadian government has adopted it for now. A more acceptable definition is the Jerusalem Declaration which is worth ingesting for future reference.
It is also premature and very irresponsible to link the latest shooting to antisemitism just because it happened near a synagogue. So far all evidence points to the shooter targeting police, not the Jewish community.
I hope you will correct this in future articles as more evidence comes forward that may reveal this was not an antisemitic act.
A note of thanks to you for adding the fair minded and sober insights from Jon Allen. His comments were necessary and much appreciated in the article.
Thank you for reading and I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Jeff Winch, CJPME Media Analyst.