Hal Berman, a Jewish palliative care doctor in Toronto, is speaking out after he says he was treated unfairly during his campaign for president of the Ontario Medical Association (OMA). The election, held between late February and early March, saw Berman lose his bid, but he claims the outcome was influenced by the OMA adding a warning to his campaign profile based on his social media activity. Two board members have since resigned over the matter.
Allegations of unfair treatment
Berman, who has been vocal about rising antisemitism since the October 7 attacks in Israel, said he was the only candidate flagged for his social media posts. The OMA added a note to his profile stating that his posts, made between late 2024 and December 2025, 'used language frequently characterized by a confrontational and combative tone.' Berman argued that this was unfair and put him at a disadvantage, calling it election interference.
'I do not believe that this is fair, and I believe that it puts me at a disadvantage. I believe that this constitutes election interference,' Berman told the National Post.
Social media content under scrutiny
Berman's social media accounts, including X and Instagram, feature a mix of personal posts and commentary on politics and antisemitism. He frequently criticized the New Democratic Party (NDP), his own party, for its handling of antisemitism allegations. One post called NDP MP Heather McPherson's commentary on the Israel-Hamas war 'tone deaf' and 'performative cosplay,' sharing an image of her wearing a keffiyeh.
Berman also criticized the Ontario Medical Student Association (OMSA) for supporting campus encampments, which he said was not inclusive of all members. He was told that this post generated complaints to the OMA.
Discrepancy in treatment
Berman noted that another candidate, who he says routinely engages in anti-Israel activism, was not flagged. He believes this discrepancy points to bias against him as a Jewish candidate.
'Of all the presidential candidates and the board candidates, mine was the only one that was singled out,' Berman said. 'So if you're Jewish, you're combative, argumentative. If you're not Jewish, then it's just political views.'
Resignations and ongoing concerns
The controversy led to the resignation of two board members, though the OMA has not publicly commented on the specific allegations. Berman's case highlights broader concerns about antisemitism in Canadian medical institutions.
Berman, a former NDP candidate in the Toronto riding of Willowdale, continues to advocate for fair treatment and transparency in professional elections.
