Letter from Sheryl Korn to York University President, Rhonda Lenton, and Dean, Trevor Farrow, regarding participation in the Gaza flotilla by law professor Heidi Matthews, for alleged breach of ethics
- CAEF
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Dear President Rhonda Lenton and Dean Trevor C. W. Farrow,
As leaders of York University and Osgoode Hall Law School, you are entrusted with protecting the integrity, reputation, and safety of your academic community, and with upholding accountability to the public that funds you. That trust has been deeply eroded.
The continued employment of Professor Heidi Matthews, who participated in the Hamas-linked flotilla, has left many Canadians questioning York University’s judgment and values. It is shocking that a professor from one of Canada’s leading law schools, an institution grounded in ethics, justice, and the rule of law, would choose to actively support and legitimize an operation tied to a recognized terrorist entity.
This is not Professor Matthews’ first time being involved in controversy. She has shown a consistent pattern of inflammatory, politically charged behaviour that has escalated over time, in part due to York University’s complete failure to impose consequences. That inaction has only emboldened her to push further beyond the bounds of professional and ethical conduct.
By joining a flotilla that ignored international advisories, violated Canadian law, and aligned itself with an extremist cause, Professor Matthews has demonstrated blatant disregard for her professional responsibilities and for the safety and trust of York students. Her actions have cast serious doubt on the university’s commitment to academic neutrality, lawful conduct, and student well-being.
Maintaining her employment signals that York University is willing to overlook breaches of integrity, the glorification of violence, and the erosion of public confidence in its institutions. This is not the example that should be set for future lawyers, policymakers, and scholars.
York University must act decisively. Dismiss Professor Heidi Matthews and affirm that this institution stands on the side of integrity, accountability, and student safety. Until then, York University and Osgoode Hall Law School remain exposed to justified public outrage and are unfit to educate the next generation of legal professionals.
Sincerely,
Sheryl Korn
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