Father's Heartbreaking Account of Campus Violence
A Jewish student was hospitalized after masked anti-Israel protesters violently disrupted a private event organized by a Jewish group at Toronto Metropolitan University on November 5, 2025. The attack has sparked national concern about rising antisemitism and campus safety in Canada.
In an emotional letter to the editor published in the National Post, the father of an injured student revealed that this was the second time his daughter had been violently attacked in Toronto since the October 7, 2023 Nova Music Festival incident. The most recent attack required her hospitalization.
Targeted by Name in Violent Confrontation
The father, Todd Howard from Richmond Hill, Ontario, described how protesters specifically targeted his daughter by name during the assault. "The protesters on Nov. 5 called my daughter by name as they vented their hatred and violence on her," Howard wrote.
The event that was attacked featured scheduled speakers from the Israeli Defense Forces. According to Howard, the masked protesters broke into the off-campus gathering, leading to physical violence against attendees. Multiple students were injured during the confrontation.
"I wish they had gotten to know her and had discoursed civilly with her rather than assaulting and hospitalizing her for having an opinion and a voice," the grieving father expressed in his published letter.
Broader Implications for Canadian Society
Howard's letter extends beyond the personal tragedy to address larger concerns about civil discourse and safety in Canada. He emphasized that having opinions and sharing them without threat of violence should be fundamental human rights in Ontario and across Canada.
The father made a surprising gesture of forgiveness toward the attackers, stating: "For my part, I forgive you. I hold no malice towards you, and I honestly wish for the betterment of yourselves and your loved ones."
He urged Canadians to choose a better path, warning that hate and oppression are increasingly rising to the surface in society. His message calls for civil discussion of differences rather than violent confrontation.
Poppy Ban Controversy Adds to National Discourse
The student attack controversy coincides with another heated national discussion about Nova Scotia judges demanding staff remove poppies from courtrooms. Premier Tim Houston condemned the decision as "disgusting" in comments published November 7.
Columnist Jamie Sarkonak argued that "the poppy is above politics" and described the ban as shameful. This poppy controversy has further fueled debates about Canadian values and remembrance traditions.
These simultaneous controversies highlight deepening divisions in Canadian society and raise important questions about how Canadians navigate differing opinions while maintaining respect and safety for all citizens.
Howard concluded his powerful message with a plea for change: "Please, let us move ahead on a better path, on a wiser path, on a more humane and just path." His words represent a growing concern among many Canadians about the direction of public discourse and safety on university campuses.
