The Special Advisor provides guidance and advice on addressing systemic and specific cases of antisemitism. His mandate includes studying antisemitism and advising the University’s senior leadership on strategies to combat it and other forms of racism, discrimination and harassment to promote a safer campus for all. The Special Advisor's role includes serving as a liaison between members of the Jewish community and the University administration, and providing his vast expertise as a resource to faculty, students and staff.”
“This new position is important to support making our campus safer and more secure for members of our Jewish community” indicated Jacques Fremont while adding that “The University of Ottawa is deeply committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We will continue to work and adapt to ensure we have the right tools to confront all forms of racism and discrimination. I am committed to a safe and respectful environment for all at the university.
“Confronting antisemitism, as part of efforts to fight all forms of discrimination, is essential”
Artur Wilczynski
— uOttawa’s Special Advisor on Antisemitism
“Confronting antisemitism, as part of efforts to fight all forms of discrimination, is essential,” explained Artur Wilczynski. “With the rise in hate, prejudice and exclusion, we need to address the specific challenges Jewish students, faculty and staff face. I am honoured that President Frémont has asked me to take on this role. I look forward to working with him, university leadership, the Jewish community, and all those committed to safe and inclusive University of Ottawa and Canada.”
Over more than 30 years serving as an accomplished senior official in the Canadian public service, Mr. Wilczynski established himself as a leading voice in the fight against antisemitism and other forms racism and discrimination. A former Ambassador to Norway and executive at Public Safety Canada and the Communications Security Establishment, Mr. Wilczynski was, notably, the first government-wide Executive Champion for the Jewish Public Servants Network and he also served as Canada’s Head of Delegation to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance from 2016 to 2018.
The University of Ottawa’s Special Advisor on Antisemitism is appointed by the President and Vice-Chancellor, and reports to the President and Vice-Chancellor as well as the Provost and Vice-President Academic Affairs. The Special Advisor works routinely in collaboration with the Vice-Provost, Equity, Diversity and Inclusive Excellence.