OTTAWA – An event organized by a group known as Science for the People has drawn strong criticism ahead of its scheduled “Palestine Roundtable” at Centrepointe Library on August 21. The program features sessions titled “Birthwork as Intifada,” “Insurgent Science,” and “Militarism in Schools,” which critics say promote division and hostility rather than dialogue.
B’nai Brith Canada, the country’s oldest Jewish human rights organization, has formally written to Councillor Matthew Luloff, Chair of the Ottawa Public Library Board, calling for the event’s cancellation.
In its letter, B’nai Brith warns that the content, language, and themes of the sessions appear to normalize or endorse violence and extremism, which contradicts the mandate of public civic spaces: “The Board has a duty to ensure that Library facilities are not used to undermine public safety, contravene Canadian values, or permit discrimination against identifiable communities.”
While emphasizing respect for intellectual freedom, B’nai Brith and other advocacy groups argue that Canadian law and policy set clear boundaries where expression promotes hate, incites violence, or creates unsafe conditions for community members.
They highlight that discussions invoking “intifada,” a reference to violent uprisings, and insurgency as a form of science run counter to community cohesion and risk stoking animosity in Ottawa.
“The available content related to the event can be seen as endorsing or normalizing hostility toward certain communities and institutions,” the letter states. Jewish leaders also fear an erosion of trust in public facilities meant to foster inclusivity and civic engagement.
Municipal authorities have acknowledged the concern, noting they are reviewing both the event and the library’s intellectual freedom policies in light of legal requirements to prevent hate and discrimination.
B’nai Brith Canada encourages citizens to make their voices heard by contacting the Ottawa Public Library Board, urging that public venues remain places for respectful dialogue and inclusion.
The event’s impact on local safety and community relations remains under scrutiny, with a decision expected in the coming days.
This article is based on verified information from B’nai Brith Canada, Ottawa Public Library Board statements, Science for the People public event calendars, and social media accounts documenting the controversy.