OTTAWA — A new Canadian poll has revealed that social media is playing a significant role in normalizing prejudice, particularly antisemitism and Islamophobia, among the nation’s youth.
The Leger survey, conducted for the Association for Canadian Studies between June 6 and 8, polled over 1,500 Canadians about their experiences with discriminatory comments since the Hamas terror attacks on Israel in October 2023. The findings show that more than one-third (39 percent) of Canadians aged 18 to 24 reported hearing antisemitic remarks, while nearly half (46 percent) encountered Islamophobic comments over the same period. The rates of exposure to such intolerance sharply decreased with age, with only 14 percent of those 65 and older hearing antisemitic remarks.
Jack Jedwab, president of the Association for Canadian Studies, said the results point to an alarming spike in hate speech fueled by social media. “The high exposure of young Canadians to antisemitism and Islamophobia was the biggest surprise,” he said, noting that the data suggest social media significantly amplifies intolerant messages. Jedwab warned that this trend “risks normalizing prejudice,” and called for clear responses from leaders to protect those targeted for their identity.
The poll also revealed a convergence in rates of exposure to both antisemitism and Islamophobia, a dramatic shift compared to previous years when Islamophobic incidents were reported at much higher rates than those targeting Jews. Jedwab cited a recent federal report documenting widespread antisemitic incidents in Ontario schools as evidence of a growing problem that must be urgently addressed.
The survey found regional differences as well, with residents in the prairie provinces reporting the highest levels of both antisemitic (23.5 percent) and Islamophobic (24.5 percent) exposure. Analysis indicated that personal exposure to hate speech not only shapes views of media coverage but also influences broader attitudes toward the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Community advocates and experts say that the proliferation of antisemitic rhetoric and conspiracy theories online has real-world consequences for Canadian Jews and other minority communities. Reports from Ontario schools and recent studies on hate crimes echo the survey’s findings, spotlighting how digital platforms can rapidly spread hate and stigmatize individuals based on religious or cultural identity.
The polling further strengthens calls from Jewish and pro-Israel organizations for stronger enforcement of social media standards, digital literacy initiatives, and proactive government measures. Advocates stress that the fight against antisemitism and all forms of hate requires a united response from tech companies, educators, and policymakers to keep online spaces safe and foster a culture of respect.
This article is based on verified information from the Leger survey for the Association for Canadian Studies, National Post, Yahoo News, and recent federal reports on antisemitism in Canadian society.