Selina Robinson, the former Minister of Post-Secondary Education in British Columbia, has recently voiced her deep concerns regarding the New Democratic Party's (NDP) stance on issues related to antisemitism. Her comments come amid controversy and personal turmoil following her ousting from the provincial cabinet, which many attribute to her outspoken views on Israel and the antisemitic sentiments that have surfaced within progressive circles.

In a recent online panel discussion, Robinson characterized the land upon which modern Israel is situated in dismissive terms, sparking outrage from various pro-Palestinian organizations. This backlash led to her stepping down from her position in February 2023, and she has since taken the momentous step of not running for re-election in October. Robinson has released a memoir, “Truth Be Told,” detailing her experiences and reflections on the political landscape post-October 7 attacks by Hamas, which intensified her awareness of the antisemitism problem within her party.

Her memoir expresses disappointment at the lack of support from her former NDP colleagues in the face of rising hostility towards Jews. Robinson believes the NDP has strayed from its foundational progressive values, especially concerning their approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. She argues that the party’s recent alignment with certain conservative Muslim groups has contributed to an environment in which antisemitic remarks have become disturbingly mainstream.

“Jack Layton must be turning in his grave,” Robinson states, reflecting on her belief that the party has betrayed its core ethos. Former NDP leader Tom Mulcair has similarly decried the growing antisemitism, stating that during his tenure, such rhetoric was effectively curtailed. Robinson urges voters to critically evaluate the candidates they support, insisting that the current New Democrats do not embody the values of progressivism.

“This isn’t a new issue; we’ve witnessed an alarming rise in antisemitic attitudes over the years,” she claims. Robinson emphasized that Jewish voices have been marginalized within discussions of racism and social justice, highlighting the importance of amplifying all voices to combat prejudice effectively.

In recounting her personal experiences, Robinson describes her former role in government as the go-to representative for Jewish issues, often consulted on matters concerning antisemitism in educational institutions. However, her vocal condemnation of extremist views led to her becoming a target herself. “When I made those controversial remarks, the premier’s initial reassurance turned quickly into a demand for my resignation,” she recalls, asserting that her ousting was influenced by her Jewish identity rather than her performance as a minister.

Robinson laments the silence of her peers during her most challenging moments, particularly when she faced attacks that called for violence against Jews. She noted, “The lessons from history remind us that bystanders play a crucial role. I looked around and asked, where are my colleagues? Where is their support?”

In her memoir, Robinson also highlights the pervasive fixation on Israel by certain unions, criticizing how some leaders, such as CUPE’s Fred Hahn, have trivialized the pain and suffering experienced by the Jewish community in favor of radical narratives. “This isn’t just about politics; it’s deeply personal and affects real lives,” Robinson asserts.

Robinson’s story is a compelling reminder of the complexities within leftist discourse surrounding Israel and antisemitism. As antisemitic incidents continue to rise across Canada, her call for introspection and sincere dialogue within the progressive movement underscores a pressing need for unity against all forms of hatred.

As Robinson navigates her new path as an independent voice and author, she hopes to inspire meaningful conversations about identity, intersectionality, and how our collective movements can honor the dignity and rights of all communities involved.

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