ETFO Antisemitism Training – JEFA Action Alert
- ALCCA Staff
- Feb 12
- 2 min read
The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) has selected Independent Jewish Voices (IJV) to deliver antisemitism training for its Provincial Executive. This decision has raised serious concerns about how antisemitism will be defined and addressed, particularly given IJV’s public positions on Zionism, the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, and related issues.
As context, ALCCA has previously published evidence-based analysis examining misstatements made by IJV and aligned witnesses regarding antisemitism and IHRA, including testimony before the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights. You can read that analysis here: Correcting the Record: Addressing Misstatements About IHRA and Antisemitism in Canada.
JEFA Action Alert
In response to ETFO’s decision, Jewish Educators and Families Association of Canada (JEFA), an ALCCA member organization, is advancing a call to action focused on direct outreach to ETFO leadership.
Key Concerns Raised by JEFA
At ETFO’s Summer AGM, a motion was passed calling for an antisemitism workshop for ETFO executive and staff.
ETFO selected Independent Jewish Voices (IJV) to deliver the workshop.
IJV represents a small minority of Jewish voices and does not reflect the majority of Jewish community organizations.
Concerns about using IJV were raised in advance, but ETFO proceeded regardless.
IJV supports BDS and anti-Zionist positions that deny Jewish indigeneity to Israel.
These factors raise serious concerns about how antisemitism will be defined and addressed within ETFO.
How to Take Action
JEFA is asking supporters to email ETFO leadership directly to share their perspectives and concerns.
About the Draft Letters
JEFA has prepared two versions of draft language to support outreach to ETFO leadership:
A version intended for Jewish ETFO members
A version intended for ally members
The draft was originally developed with ETFO members in mind. Supporters are encouraged to choose the version that best reflects their role and to adapt the language as needed to ensure it aligns with their own perspective and relationship to the issue.
Personalized, respectful correspondence is strongly encouraged.
ETFO Contacts (as provided by JEFA)
Editorial Note
This action alert reflects the views and strategy of Jewish Educators and Families Association of Canada (JEFA).