In this time of rising antisemitism, and marginalization of Jewish workers in their Unions, the Canadian Jewish Labour Committee (CJLC) wants to highlight some basic safety and security principles. Hopefully this will be of help to Jewish workers feeling the emotional injury of workplace and/or Union-based antisemitism.

In the workplace, anti-harassment policies should exist. We urge our Jewish members to familiarize themselves with their workplace harassment policies, and to speak with their workplace Health and Safety representatives if you witness, or feel threatened by, any antisemitic actions at the workplace. Such events could include anti-Zionist rallies, name calling, physical threats or being blocked from accessing the workplace or services like lunch rooms, exclusion from workplace meetings that you would normally be able to attend, and so on. Jewish members are encouraged to document such occurrences, record witnesses if possible, and respond to any form of harassment within the bounds of workplace policy. CJLC is prepared to assist and support any Jewish worker in this situation.

Unions have an obligation to ensure their members are free from harassment. Most if not all Unions have anti-harassment policies, which include steps to filing a complaint of harassment within the union. If any Jewish Union member experiences harassment, CJLC strongly encourages them to file harassment complaints within the Union. CJLC stands ready to support any Union member in this situation with their union.

Proactively, CJLC encourages all Jewish workers to speak with their Union stewards and with their supervisor or department head, and with their Health and Safety representative, about the fact of rising antisemitism, and to go on record if you feel threatened or unsafe in the Union or the workplace. It is reasonable to also ask what measures the employer and/or the Union have in place, or are prepared to take, to ensure your physical and emotional safety.

If you are a Jewish Union member and wish to get more information or seek support, please contact us.