Alberta Adds Antisemitism Education to Junior High Curriculum
Alberta is introducing lessons on antisemitism to the draft Grades 7 to 9 social studies curriculum. Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides says the change reflects the government’s commitment to teaching students about injustices faced by marginalized groups and equipping them to confront rising antisemitism.
“I firmly believe we must do everything possible to combat rising antisemitism and educate young Albertans about the realities of prejudice and discrimination,” said Nicolaides. “This will help us confront hate and build stronger communities.”
The province says the curriculum changes were developed in consultation with Jewish organizations, including the Calgary Jewish Federation and the Jewish Federation of Edmonton. Both groups praised the move, saying it fosters empathy and understanding.
“By ensuring these critical lessons are part of the learning experience for students, we are fostering empathy, understanding, and resilience in future generations,” said Stacey Leavitt-Wright, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Edmonton.
The update builds on Alberta’s decision in November 2023 to make Holocaust education mandatory in the draft K to 6 curricula. Nicolaides announced the new antisemitism lessons on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.