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An external review of two protests that led to the arrests of Toronto Metropolitan University students last year says the incidents were “symptoms of a deteriorating campus climate” after the start of the Israel-Hamas war.
The newly released report by former Ontario Court of Appeal judge Mary Lou Benotto and lawyer Margot Finley says incidents similar to those of Sept. 19 and Nov. 5 are likely to occur again “absent decisive institutional action.”
University campuses have been a flashpoint for protests in Canada and beyond in the aftermath of Hamas militants’ deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, an event that marked the beginning of the conflict.
The report says a student was arrested after the disruption of a TMU-hosted Democracy Forum event, and several protesters were arrested after the disruption of an off-campus event involving speakers with ties to the Israel Defense Forces.
The nearly 200-page document says TMU has policies capable of addressing much of the conduct at the heart of the review but has “too often failed to apply them consistently and decisively,” contributing to growing tensions.
It recommends the downtown Toronto school take several steps, including revising its statement on freedom of speech to “expressly prohibit” intimidation, harassment, discrimination and behaviour that interferes with others’ right to free expression.
Other recommendations include the adoption of “clear, content-neutral expectations” for protests as well as changes to ensure lawful events aren’t denied because of anticipated opposition, and better regulation of online harassment, intimidation, doxxing and other such conduct.
“The university cannot resolve the conflict in the Middle East or eliminate disagreement, grief, anger, or competing historical narratives,” the report reads. “It can, however, establish clear behavioural expectations, protect the rights of all members of the community, and enforce its policies consistently, transparently, and predictably.”
The 2023 attack on Israel killed around 1,200 people and saw more than 250 taken hostage by militants. Gaza’s Health Ministry, which is part of the Hamas-run government, says Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed more than 72,700 people. It does not distinguish between civilians and militants.
A ceasefire agreement announced last October ended major military operations and brought about the release of the remaining hostages held in Gaza but has stalled on other fronts.