Your writing has a way of resonating with me on a deep level. I appreciate the honesty and authenticity you…
Written By Jean-Philippe Vitu, Posted on May 26, 2025
Why I Left TMU: A Canadian Student’s Search for Real Academia in France
The ongoing decline of Canadian academia has compelled me to express my deep concerns, particularly regarding developments at Toronto Metropolitan University. Similar patterns are also evident at other ideologically driven institutions such as McGill University and the University of Toronto. In contrast, after completing a full year in the Erasmus program at the Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 in France during the third year of my studies, I came to genuinely appreciate the academic norms maintained within the French university system.
After two years in the undergraduate studies program at Toronto Metropolitan University, numerous observations have led me to conclude that TMU has failed to uphold the academic standards a university should represent. One example that clearly reflects the broader issues within the institution is the Board’s failure to address antisemitism on campus following the October 7th massacres in Israel. I vividly recall a group of about 250 students protesting in front of the Sheldon and Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre on October 20, 2023. Harmful slogans that expressed sympathy with Hamas, such as “Intifada” and “From the River to the Sea, Palestine will be Free,” were openly displayed, effectively denying the independence or even the existence of Israel.
These students were promoting a concerning obsession with Israel and a demonisation of Jews, yet faced neither arrest by campus police nor any form of sanction. Even more troubling, 74 students from the Lincoln Alexander School of Law signed a letter addressed to the President of the University that denied the existence of Israel. Specifically, the letter claimed that Israel is “a product of colonialism” and therefore an illegitimate state. Additionally, it argued that the October 7 attacks were merely the deserved consequences of a systematic campaign by Israel to eradicate Palestinians. This letter epitomises my concern that these individuals are being trained to become the next generation of jurists.
The investigation into the matter was concluded by Chief Justice of Nova Scotia Michael MacDonald, who found that the students had not breached the school’s non-academic code of conduct. MacDonald acknowledged that while the open letter was “understandably troubling and offensive to many,” the students were exercising the “wide latitude” of expression protected under the school’s Statement on Freedom of Speech. This response entirely overlooks the fact that the letter contributes, however indirectly, to a multilayered hostile campus environment for many Jewish students. The university’s failure to take any action has rendered all political science lectures since October 7 an uncomfortable setting—not just for Jewish students, but for anyone who does not align with the “Palestinian mob.”
Similar ideological problems are evident when examining seemingly unrelated issues such as climate change, gay rights, and the increasingly dogmatic notion of diversity, equity, and inclusion. These individuals, whether part of student organisations or faculty, often make up the majority in the classroom and effectively dictate what constitutes acceptable thought. As a result, the fundamental principles of critical thinking and freedom of speech are being steadily eroded.
This troubling experience has led me to significantly reorient my own cultural and intellectual positions, as well as my sense of belonging on campus. As a student, I have come to realise the necessity of seeking new horizons on a national level. Justin Trudeau’s 2015 remarks in the New York Times, describing Canada as “the first post-national state with no core identity,” combined with the concerning decline of Canadian democracy since the 2022 Truckers Convoy, have contributed to my decision to enter a self-imposed exile from Canada.
I have now chosen to welcome a new country into my life, and this shift has transformed the way I view the world. My father was born in France and taught me French at a very young age, which granted me French citizenship. As a result, I was deeply motivated to reconnect with my roots by embarking on my own rêve français as an alternative to Canada. Through this experience, I have identified two key strengths in French academia that Canadian universities would do well to observe if they hope to prevent stories like mine from becoming increasingly common. These two factors are intellectual conduct and student culture.
Firstly, intellectualism is genuinely valued. During lectures, there is a clear sense that the students around you are focused, eager to learn, and engaged with the curriculum—whether in law, international relations, or the Renaissance. The structure of the classes typically leads students to compile 60 to 80 pages of material, almost as if they are crafting their own intellectual manual. This material is then applied to projects and, most importantly, the final examination. At its core, the university places the student at the centre, equipping them with the tools needed to pursue a wide range of opportunities.
As expected, students at Lyon 3 are politically active, with posters, petitions, and campus tables promoting new ideas in a peaceful and respectful manner. The university respects political neutrality and allows activities across the full political spectrum, from left to right. What surprised me most, however, was the complete absence of pride flags, posters promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, or designated safe spaces—all of which are prominently displayed at TMU. At Lyon 3, you are more likely to encounter posters for exchange programmes in the United States, conferences with military specialists, or classical music concerts. The emphasis is clearly on academic engagement rather than ideological displays, which is exactly how it should be.
In addition, unlike at TMU, when student conduct crosses the line, the law gets involved. On November 8, 2024, 200 students vandalised the university entrance with pro-Palestinian and antisemitic slogans. The Minister of Higher Education, Patrick Hetzel, took legal action to sanction those responsible, citing a violation of the values of the Republic. That case is currently ongoing.
Student culture is also worth noting. Most students dress elegantly for class. Of course, there is no formal dress code, but universities are institutions of higher learning, and displays of respect and professionalism are well received at Lyon 3. Given France’s cultural influence on fashion, this is hardly surprising. Still, this cultural detail has a noticeable impact on the academic atmosphere. Dressing well encourages self-confidence and fosters a positive mindset. In other words, students in France are motivated to “dress for success.” Unfortunately, I cannot say the same for universities in Toronto, where many students dress well below what could even be considered casual.
With all this in mind, the structure of academia in France has left me with no regrets about the decision I made. It has only confirmed that moving to France was the right choice. Unlike Canada, it is a nation where freedom of expression and the pursuit of knowledge, free from ideological influence, form the foundation of student success. Canadian universities will need both wisdom and strong leadership to reverse the ideological grip that currently exists. Such leadership will also be essential in fostering an education system that values creativity and merit. As much as I would like to see this kind of movement take hold, only time will tell whether it will emerge and whether it will have the strength to succeed.
• Fierté française République 🇫🇷 • History & Political Science TMU •Conservative political commentator on Canada / United States.
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