Open Letter Regarding MLA Selina Robinson’s Resignation from the BC NDP Caucus
We are profoundly saddened by the news that Selina Robinson, the MLA for Coquitlam-Maillardville and former Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, will be leaving the BC NDP Caucus to sit as an independent because of the antisemitism that she has experienced.
Since the October 7 terrorist attacks committed by Hamas, the Jewish community in B.C. has felt vulnerable. According to the Vancouver Police Department, antisemitic hate incidents increased by 62% in 2023 compared to the previous year. This is why we have relied on strong voices at the cabinet table to advocate on our behalf, understanding the challenges and sensitivities Jews face, including those with lived experience as members of our community.
Now we have learned that in addition to being asked to forgive and work with members of government who offended our community or made antisemitic comments, a Jewish community member who was part of the government endured antisemitism within the government caucus first-hand.
It is the job of the Premier to ensure that all British Columbians feel safe. Recent polling shows that 75% of all British Columbians are concerned with the rise in antisemitism in our province, and they support governments and organizations when they take action against it.
Premier Eby must demonstrate leadership and address antisemitism within his caucus, his government, and in British Columbia as a whole.
Sincerely,
Ezra Shanken
CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver
Rabbi Jonathan Infeld
Chair, Rabbinical Association of Vancouver
Nico Slobinsky
Vice President, Pacific Region
Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs
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