On February 28, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute hosted a timely and thought-provoking discussion on the resurgence of antisemitism in the 21st century, featuring renowned scholar and antisemitism expert David Hirsh in conversation with MLI Senior Fellow Casey Babb.
The event began with welcoming remarks by Peter Copeland, Deputy Director of Domestic Policy at MLI, setting the stage for an insightful dialogue on one of the most pressing issues of our time. The discussion delved into the complexities of contemporary antisemitism, exploring its modern manifestations, the role of populism, the impact of the BDS campaign, and the aftermath of the October 7th attacks.
David Hirsh, CEO of the London Centre for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism, provided a sociological perspective on the relationship between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, drawing on his extensive research and advocacy work. Casey Babb, a leading expert on antisemitism and Israeli security, offered his insights on the global implications of rising antisemitism and its impact on Jewish communities worldwide.
The conversation highlighted how the October 7th attacks marked a profound and unsettling shift for both Israelis and the Jewish diaspora. For Israelis, it was a stark confrontation with the reality long faced by the diaspora: the expectation of little to no support from mainstream society. Meanwhile, Jewish communities abroad found themselves in a position akin to Israelis, pressured to either defend or condemn Israeli policies solely because of their Jewish identity. This dual experience underscored the enduring relevance of antisemitism, which remains a present and urgent issue rather than a relic of the past.
The discussion also addressed the challenges of combating antisemitism in an era of increasing polarization and the importance of fostering democratic resilience to counter hate and intolerance. Participants engaged in a lively Q&A session, further exploring the themes of the discussion and sharing their perspectives on how to effectively address antisemitism in the 21st century.
The event concluded with a call to action, emphasizing the need for a coordinated and proactive response from governments, civil society, and individuals to combat antisemitism and promote a more inclusive and tolerant world.
We extend our gratitude to David Hirsh, Casey Babb, and all the participants for their valuable contributions to this critical discussion. Together, we can work towards a future free from hate and discrimination.
To view a full photo gallery from the conference please click here.
