Response to Former BC MLA Selina Robinson’s Baseless Accusation of Antisemitism against Vancouver Candidate Sean Orr 

March 21, 2025 — Independent Jewish Voices (IJV)-Vancouver is deeply concerned by former BC MLA Selina Robinson’s recent comments on Facebook labelling Vancouver city council candidate Sean Orr as antisemitic. This accusation appears to be based solely on Mr. Orr’s criticism of Israeli government policies and his advocacy for Palestinian rights. Such harmful characterization is not only unfounded but also dangerously conflates legitimate political critique with antisemitism—an alarming misrepresentation that undermines the important distinction between the two.

Criticism of any government, or government interference in Canadian society, including Israel’s, is a fundamental aspect of free speech and democratic discourse, which is enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Advocating for Palestinian rights or condemning actions that violate international law is not antisemitic. By making this baseless accusation, Ms. Robinson risks stifling meaningful dialogue on an issue that demands nuanced and thoughtful engagement. Furthermore, such mischaracterizations divert attention from the very real and urgent need to combat antisemitism and all forms of hatred with clarity and precision.

We urge Ms. Robinson to consider the impact of her words and retract her accusation against Mr. Orr. Public figures have a responsibility to engage in constructive and respectful debate, rather than resorting to inflammatory rhetoric that polarizes communities and distracts from urgent human rights concerns, such as the ongoing genocide in Gaza and continual mass violations of human rights in the West Bank. We stand firmly against all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Palestinian racism, and we call for a more thoughtful and inclusive approach to discussing Israel and Palestine.

As a Jewish-led advocacy group, IJV vehemently  rejects the weaponization of antisemitism to silence legitimate criticism of Israel or advocacy for Palestine. It harms those targeted, such as Mr. Orr, and weakens the fight against genuine antisemitism and other forms of bigotry. We hope that all parties involved can move forward with a commitment to fostering understanding, respect, inclusion, and justice for all.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Independent Jewish Voices – Vancouver, ijv-vancouver@ijvcanada.org