The Legal and Societal Perils of Introducing the Concept of Anti-Palestinian Racism in Canada

Abstract Several civil society groups in Canada advocate for adopting the concept of Anti-Palestinian Racism ( apr ). However, there are significant flaws in both its concept and definition, as well as legal and societal risks in its adoption. apr seems more focused on advancing a political agenda and undermining the core identities of most Jews than addressing discrimination against Palestinians. This paper examines the legal and social implications of recognizing apr as a form of racism, particularly within Canadian universities or colleges. It argues that apr is a political advocacy tool, not a legal framework to combat racism, uniquely targeting Zionism and contradicting efforts to fight antisemitism. apr also confuses discrimination based on national or ethnic origin with racism, despite existing laws protecting against such discrimination. Additionally, apr undermines freedom of expression and threatens academic freedom by dictating the outcomes of political discussions.