The University of Toronto has acknowledged anti-Muslim, anti-Arab and anti-Palestinian discrimination across its campuses, pledging immediate measures to address concerns raised by affected communities.
In a statement on Thursday, the university recognised that discrimination against these groups existed within the institution and said it was committed to tackling the problem.
The acknowledgment follows a nearly 300-page report by the university's Muslim, Arab and Palestinian Discrimination Working Group (MAP DWG), which identified what it described as a “general pattern of over-policing and under-protecting” these communities.
Participants reported harassment, derogatory remarks, vandalism and online intimidation. They also raised concerns about being surveilled or targeted because of their academic research, activism or expressions of support for Palestinians.
University rejects report's recommendations as written
While recognising the discrimination identified in the report, the university said it could not accept the document and its recommendations in their current form.
It argued that some proposals conflicted with collective agreements and protections for academic freedom, while others fell outside the university's jurisdiction.
Despite rejecting the recommendations as written, the institution outlined several immediate steps intended to address the concerns.
New advisory council among proposed measures
The measures include seeking additional financial support for students affected by global conflicts and continuing academic investment in research concerning Muslim, Arab and Palestinian communities.
The university also plans to establish a Muslim Community Advisory Council to seek guidance from external Muslim community organisations on campus climate and equity issues.
The proposed council will address concerns affecting students, faculty members, staff and librarians.
