Alberta students in Grades 7 to 9 will soon learn about the realities of antisemitism as part of the province’s updated social studies curriculum, the provincial government announced on Monday.
The decision comes amid a global rise in antisemitism following the October 7, 2023, attacks on the Jewish community in Israel — the deadliest targeted assault since the Holocaust.
"Ensuring all students learn about the injustices faced by those who historically were, and continue to be, marginalized or discriminated against will help us confront hate and build stronger communities," said Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education.
The inclusion of antisemitism education in the draft curriculum is part of Alberta’s broader initiative to combat discrimination. In November 2023, the government made Holocaust education mandatory for students, and the draft K to 6 social studies curriculum released in April 2024 also includes lessons on antisemitism.
The province worked extensively with education partners and Jewish organizations throughout 2023-24 to develop the curriculum, with further engagement planned this winter to refine the content.
Jewish leaders in Alberta praised the initiative.
"The Calgary Jewish Federation applauds Alberta's government for taking meaningful action in combating the spread of antisemitism through this critical initiative," said Rob Nagus, CEO of the Calgary Jewish Federation.
Stacey Leavitt-Wright, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Edmonton, added, "By ensuring these critical lessons are part of the learning experience for students, we are fostering empathy, understanding, and resilience in future generations."
Alberta Education will continue collaborating with Jewish organizations to finalize the content and determine how it will be implemented across junior high classrooms.
The current K to 12 social studies curriculum in Alberta already addresses injustices faced by marginalized groups.
The draft K to 6 social studies curriculum, released in April 2024, is currently being piloted and is set for full implementation in the 2025-26 school year.
