Montreal, Jan 21, 2025 — The Anti-Racism Program of the CJPME Foundation (ARPCF) is deeply concerned by the Vancouver Public Library's (VPL) decision to ban staff from wearing watermelon pins, a symbol of solidarity with Palestinians. This policy contradicts the library’s stated commitment to inclusion and safety by singling out Palestinian symbols, creating an unsafe environment for staff and community members, and marginalizing Palestinian voices.
"These actions send a clear message that Palestinian voices and symbols are unwelcome at the VPL," said Jamila Ewais, Lead Researcher at ARPCF. "Banning the watermelon pin is not a neutral decision—it actively excludes Palestinian identities and stories." The VPL’s decision was met with significant criticism; for example, former VPL trustee Melody Ma called the ban a direct assault on intellectual freedom and freedom of expression, which are values at the core of public libraries. CUPE Local 391, representing VPL workers, also criticized the policy for creating an unsafe and punitive work environment.
This type of action may also conflict with Canadian laws protecting workers' rights and freedom of expression. Section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms arguably safeguards the right to express solidarity through symbols like the watermelon pin. Furthermore, federal and provincial workplace laws require employers to ensure a safe and non-discriminatory work environment. By selectively targeting pro-Palestinian employees, the VPL risks violating these legal protections. This arbitrary enforcement of policy disproportionately harms marginalized groups and raises significant concerns about equity and fairness in the workplace.
The ARPCF urges the VPL to immediately revoke the ban on watermelon pins, implement equitable policies that do not target marginalized groups, and create a workplace that respects the rights of employees to express solidarity. These steps are essential for fostering inclusion and ensuring the library remains a space for diverse voices and perspectives.
About the ARPCF – The mandate of the Anti-Racism Program of the CJPME Foundation (ARPCF) is to create public awareness about racism in Canada. This mandate falls in line with the Foundation’s broader purpose of monitoring and combating manifestations of racism, xenophobia, and discrimination by increasing public awareness of such biases.
For more information, please contact Jamila Ewais, 514-389-8668
ARPCF, [email protected] www.cjpmefoundation.org
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