MLI’s The Promised Land Project
On October 7th, 2023, Israel endured a harrowing terrorist attack that claimed innocent lives, including seven Canadians, and shook the world. This assault targeted not just Israel but the core of Western values, challenging principles of humanity, justice, and democratic rights. In its aftermath, rising antisemitism, radical ideologies, and anti-Israel rhetoric have unsettled Jewish communities in Canada and the world. Recognizing these urgent challenges, the Macdonald-Laurier Institute has launched a pioneering policy program: The Promised Land. This initiative aims to address critical gaps in Canadian understanding of Israel and the Middle East, combat growing antisemitism, and counter extremism to uphold democratic values and foster informed dialogue.
Antisemitism and extremism thrive when their opponents are silent and divided. The Promised Land project brings together thought leaders from across the country and amplifies their vital voices in defence of peace, order and good government. Our objective is a far-reaching redefinition of how Canadians view Israel, the Middle East conflict, antisemitism, and extremism.
Problem: Canada's approach to the Middle East is stuck in the past
MLI’s Solution
Every day our authors and fellows dispel myths about Israel and the Jewish people while also revealing the flaws in our foreign and public order policies that have led to antisemitism and extremism festering at home and abroad. Through media interviews, op-eds, magazine articles, live events, webinars, podcasts, papers and more, we amplify the voices of those who know the facts about the Jewish community, Israel and the Middle East.
Problem: Many Canadians do not understand the extent of extremism in our midst
MLI’s Solution
We drag dark truths into the light by: challenging lies and half-truths in our media; exposing the sources of foreign influence and financing behind growing radicalism in North America; translating protests and sermons to reveal the hateful and violent rhetoric they contain; clarifying what the law allows in protests and demonstrations; and unmasking the role our universities and other institutions play in aiding and abetting extremism.
Problem: Recklessness in our immigration system is putting Canadians at risk
MLI’s Solution
Through pragmatic, evidence-based recommendations, MLI is helping Canadians see why more prudent screening and a culturally sustainable immigration program are in this country’s interests.
Problem: Jewish Canadians feel besieged and abandoned
MLI’s Solution
To assemble a multi-faith multicultural coalition to expose how radicalism poses a grave threat to all Canadians by destabilising the very foundations of our secular liberal democracy. Our team includes Muslims, Jews, Christians and secular Canadians, as well as human rights activists, public safety, intelligence, security, and deradicalization experts.
Podcast
To arrange an interview with one of our experts, media are invited to contact:
Dagny Pawlak-Loerchner
Senior Communications Officer
(613) 482-8327 x113
Dagny.pawlak-loerchner@
As featured in...
Advisory Panel
Senior Fellow
Contributor
Senior Fellow
Senior Fellow
Munk Senior Fellow (Human rights)
Senior Fellow
Munk Senior Fellow (Counterterrorism and intelligence)
