Canadian Handbook on the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism

We are pleased to announce that the Government of Canada and the office of Deborah Lyons, Canada’s Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, has just released the Canadian Handbook on the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism. This crucial and timely resource is a testament to years of dedicated work and collaboration with the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), Jewish Federations, and other Jewish community groups and stakeholders.

With antisemitism rising dramatically in Canada, the IHRA definition of antisemitism has been a cornerstone in our fight against hatred. IHRA provides a clear and comprehensive framework for identifying and addressing antisemitism, both in its traditional and more subtle forms. Grounded in the research of the world’s foremost experts on antisemitism and the Holocaust and widely accepted as the consensus definition that best reflects lived experience of Jews today, it was adopted by the Government of Canada in 2019 and used as the basis to define antisemitism in Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy. It has also been adopted by several provinces, including Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and BC.

In addition to providing a much-needed tool to identify, understand, and combat antisemitism, the Canadian IHRA Handbook also provides an understanding of the Jewish community and peoplehood, its indigeneity to the land of Israel, and how anti-Jewish racism manifests in undermining Jews’ historical and lived experiences.

The Canadian IHRA Handbook will help give governments, universities, unions, and civil society organizations a vital tool tailored to our Canadian context. It includes real-life examples and case studies that reflect the unique experiences of our community, making it an invaluable asset in understanding and tackling antisemitism effectively.

During the development of this handbook, alongside other Jewish community organizations, CIJA was asked to contribute examples based on our collective experiences with antisemitism in Canada. The contributions and consultations with the Jewish community and the use of lived experience provides concrete guidance for addressing antisemitism.

The next step will be putting this handbook to work. CIJA will connect with governments and organizations to help ensure this handbook becomes a standard reference to understand and stop antisemitism.

We encourage you to explore the handbook and share it within your networks to help broaden understanding and counter antisemitism.

We extend our thanks to Deborah Lyons, Irwin Cotler, and all who contributed to this vital initiative. Together, we are taking meaningful steps toward a more informed and resilient community.

Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA)