Jewish university students across Ontario are grappling with heightened antisemitism and an increasing sense of insecurity on campus, according to a newly released survey by Hillel Ontario. The province-wide study, conducted across nine universities, sheds light on the profound impact of the October 2023 terror attacks and the subsequent global surge in antisemitism.
The findings paint a stark picture:
- 86% of respondents are concerned about antisemitism on their campus.
- 54% feel less safe at school since October 2023.
- 77% report that the rise in antisemitism has negatively affected their mental health.
“This snapshot confirms that there is a normalization of antisemitism on campus, and that Jewish students have lived through it – to their detriment – for over sixteen months,” said Hillel Ontario CEO Rabbi Seth Goren. “Hillel Ontario is determined to meet this ‘new normal’ head-on and uplift Jewish students with the care and support they deserve.”
Finding Strength in Community
Despite the challenges, the survey also highlights the resilience of Jewish students and the critical role that Hillel plays in their campus experience.
- 95% of students said their Jewish identity remains important to them.
- 70% reported that Hillel has become even more significant in their lives since October 2023.
- 76% feel safer confronting antisemitism due to Hillel’s presence on campus.
- 94% feel supported in pushing back against antisemitism.
“Students needed our support immediately after October 7, and they haven’t stopped turning to us,” said Jay Solomon, Chief Advancement Officer at Hillel Ontario. “At Hillel, they’ve found a community they trust—one that makes them feel safer. This moment of crisis, while incredibly challenging, presents an opportunity for us to reach even more students as we build the next generation of strong, proud, and joyous Jews.”
The Urgency of Action
The survey underscores the necessity of continued support and advocacy, with 73% of students wanting Hillel to prioritize combating antisemitism as a key part of its mission.
In an increasingly hostile campus climate, Hillel Ontario remains a vital space for Jewish students—not just for safety, but for fostering joy, pride, and resilience. As antisemitism continues to rise, the organization is committed to ensuring that students have the resources, community, and confidence to stand strong in their identity.