American commentator Ben Shapiro, co-founder of The Daily Wire, is set to headline the first World Symposium Against Antizionism in Toronto on May 17. The conference, organized by the Jewish rights organization Tafsik in partnership with StopAntizionism and its founder Naya Lekht, aims to combat the rising tide of antizionism, which organizers describe as a modern form of antisemitism.
Conference Details and Objectives
The full-day event will feature a keynote address by Shapiro and various panels covering topics such as legal issues and disinformation. Amir Epstein, founder and executive director of Tafsik, emphasized the urgency of the conference, stating that antizionism has permeated societal fabric and often aligns with far-left ideologies like anti-democracy and anti-western sentiments.
Growing Threats to Jewish Communities
Epstein highlighted that Canada is entering a "new era" of antisemitism, where far-right and far-left or Islamist agendas converge. He pointed to increased anti-Jewish activities in Toronto following the October 7, 2023 attacks, including protests in Jewish neighborhoods and vandalism of Jewish-owned businesses. The conference seeks to address these threats by educating attendees and sharing strategies to counter antizionist rhetoric.
Inclusive Approach and Future Plans
The event will bring together speakers, advocates, and leaders from diverse communities, including Christian and Hindu groups, to foster understanding and collaboration. Epstein noted that additional speakers will be announced in the coming weeks, underscoring the conference's role as a platform for unity and action against antisemitism.
