As concerned citizens of Victoria and Vancouver Island, we call upon all of our city officials and university administrations to take immediate action to enforce existing laws and bylaws and restore order in our community. Recent pro-Palestinian protests have led to significant disruptions, causing increased anxiety and intimidation within the Jewish community and for many Island residents. The increased hate speech, traffic and noise violations are impacting daily life on the Island, in Duncan, Comox Valley, Nanaimo, Victoria and on the Gulf Islands. 

Additionally, unauthorized encampments at the University of Victoria (UVic) and Vancouver Island University (VIU) are in direct violation of university policies, compromising the safety and integrity of these institutions and threatening the well being of Jewish staff and students.

Moreover, we urge the British Columbia government to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism. This vital step will strengthen our provincial stance against antisemitism, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all citizens.

By signing this petition, you are calling for the enforcement of bylaws to maintain public order, the removal of unauthorized encampments that violate university policies, and the adoption of the IHRA definition to combat antisemitism. Together, we can ensure that Vancouver Island remains a peaceful, respectful, and inclusive community for everyone.

https://saturday-october-seven.com/

https://mida.org.il/2014/05/19/ancient-jewish-connection-holy-land-10-major-pieces-evidence/

https://avalon.law.yale.edu/20th_century/hamas.asp

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/hamas-2017-document-full

https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/untangling-uns-gaza-fatality-data