We were proud to host Luai Ahmed, a Yemen-born Muslim Zionist, journalist and influencer, on Canadian campuses as he met with students and challenged widespread misconceptions about Israel.

Luai joined our Emerson Fellows at U of T, Concordia, Queen’s and York, tabling with a sign that read: “I’m an Arab Muslim Who Supports Israel. Ask Me Anything.” The goal: real dialogue with students who disagreed with him, and a chance for them to hear a perspective they’ve likely never encountered. As someone directly affected by radical extremism, Luai understands why defending Israel matters for both Jews and non-Jews alike.

Over four days there were tense moments and difficult encounters, but also many meaningful conversations that left students and faculty with new facts to consider. Unfortunately, we also heard deeply concerning comments, including conspiracy theories about Oct. 7, claims that “Jews control society,” attempts to delegitimize Luai’s identity, the justification of Hamas killings, and accusations that discussing Israel should be banned on campus.

We’re grateful to Luai for his calmness, courage, and clarity in the face of all of this, and for helping many students hear Israel’s perspective for the first time. The prevalence of this rhetoric is alarming, and it is clear there is much more work to do.

In the evenings, we hosted community events in Montreal, Toronto, and Kingston, reminding people that there are strong non-Jewish voices standing with the Jewish community. We also had the opportunity for Luai to meet with high school students at Tanenbaum CHAT and JPPS-Bialik. Thank you for having us!

Thank you to student speakers Justice, Raihaana, Ethan, and Conrad for shedding light on the challenges they face and how they continue to stand up for our community.

Luai’s tour left audiences inspired, informed, and empowered to push back against extremism and antisemitism. Thank you, Luai, for your honesty and bravery.