Strategic Abandonment: Is It Time To Stop Fighting Antisemitism?

On April 27, HonestReporting Canada, in partnership with HR Canada Charitable Organization, held a timely and provocative conversation on antisemitism, social discourse, and the growing sense of strategic confusion in how the world’s oldest hatred is being understood and addressed. In the months since October 7, antisemitism has surged across Canada and the Western world – on campuses, in the streets, and across media and public institutions. At the same time, there’s an increasing sense that the frameworks we have relied on to understand and combat it are no longer working. What exactly are we confronting? Why does the response so often feel inadequate or misdirected? How can we make a difference – or can we? Is it time to enact a form of strategic abandonment? To explore these questions, we were joined by Bret Stephens, opinion columnist at The New York Times and editor-in-chief of SAPIR. One of the most prominent and incisive voices on antisemitism, media, and global politics, Bret brought a sharp and unflinching perspective to the ideological and institutional forces shaping today’s discourse, and the consequences of getting it wrong. The conversation was moderated by Jonathan Kay, editor, author, and podcaster at Quillette. Known for his thoughtful and probing style, Jonathan guided a discussion that moved beyond the obvious, to examine the deeper cultural, political, and intellectual dynamics at play. Importantly, this discussion examined how these dynamics are unfolding here in Canada. As antisemitism rises, questions are being raised about institutional responses, political will, and the broader implications for social cohesion, democratic norms, and public trust. What does it mean when a society struggles to clearly identify and respond to a form of hatred that has historically been so well understood? Have we truly left ‘the golden age for the Jews’ behind? As policymakers, journalists, and the public grapple with these issues, this webinar will provide critical insight into not only what is happening, but what it means for the future of the Jewish people, public discourse, and the integrity of our institutions.