In a recent and alarming move, four Members of Parliament from Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) have signed a letter urging the Liberal government to deny entry to American actor and comedian Michael Rapaport. This action not only highlights the NDP’s blatant double standard but also exposes a deep-seated anti-Israel bias and antisemitism within the party.
Michael Rapaport, known for his outspoken support of Israel, has been targeted by the NDP under the pretext of promoting hate speech. However, this accusation appears baseless, as Rapaport’s public statements primarily focus on defending Israel’s right to exist and criticizing terrorism. The NDP’s attempt to label pro-Israel advocacy as hate speech is a dangerous conflation that undermines legitimate discourse.
This incident is not isolated. The NDP has a history of opposing definitions and measures that aim to combat antisemitism. For instance, the party has resisted adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, citing concerns over free speech and the potential to stifle criticism of Israel. Yet, when it comes to voices supporting Israel, the NDP seems eager to suppress them, revealing a hypocritical stance on free expression.
Moreover, the NDP’s selective outrage is evident in its inconsistent approach to international figures. While the party calls for barring a pro-Israel comedian, it remains conspicuously silent or even welcoming toward individuals and groups with documented histories of promoting actual hate speech and violence, provided they align with the party’s ideological leanings. This selective gatekeeping not only showcases the NDP’s double standard but also raises questions about its commitment to combating all forms of hate.
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) has previously criticized the NDP for sidelining Canadian Jews in discussions about antisemitism. In a statement, CIJA emphasized that the fight against antisemitism cannot exclude those most affected and that Jewish voices must be central in defining and addressing the hatred they endure. The NDP’s recent actions further marginalize these voices, suggesting that the party prioritizes political posturing over genuine allyship.
By attempting to bar Michael Rapaport from entering Canada, the NDP not only infringes upon free speech but also perpetuates a narrative that delegitimizes pro-Israel perspectives. This action serves as a stark reminder of the party’s underlying biases and raises serious concerns about its commitment to equity and justice for all communities.
It is imperative for the NDP to reflect on its actions and address the inconsistencies in its approach to human rights and free speech. True progressivism requires standing against all forms of hate and upholding the principles of open dialogue and inclusivity, rather than selectively silencing voices that challenge a biased narrative.