The Take Canary Mission: how has the site been used to target pro-Palestine activists?
Jul 17, 2025
Darryl Li, a Professor of Anthropology and Social Sciences at the University of Chicago, dives deep into the controversial subject of Canary Mission, a site that blacklists pro-Palestinian activists. He discusses the troubling use of this blacklist by the Trump administration to target academics for deportation. The conversation highlights the chilling effects on free speech in academic settings, linking activism to anti-Semitism and examining modern digital surveillance tactics. Li's insights reveal a disturbing trend of political repression against dissenting voices.
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Canary Mission's Mysterious Origins
- Canary Mission is an anonymous site blacklisting pro-Palestinian students and professors since 2014.
- It acts as a comprehensive directory targeting individuals considered enemies by the Zionist movement.
Canary Mission's Impact on Deportations
- The Trump administration used Canary Mission's list for deportation targets, giving 75% of names to ICE.
- ICE's budget and personnel are expanding, escalating deportations targeting pro-Palestinian activists.
Darryl Li's Personal Targeting Experience
- Darryl Li's face appeared on posters accusing him of supporting terrorism at his university.
- Despite this, his employer dismissed the allegations; however, students face serious Google smear consequences.