Feds announce forum on antisemitism following incidents at Jewish school and synagogue
The federal government has taken a bold step in combating antisemitism by announcing a national forum to address the rise in hate-motivated crimes targeting the Jewish community. Newly appointed Minister of Official Languages Rachel Bendayan made the announcement shortly after her swearing-in, emphasizing the need to protect all Canadians from hate in all its forms.
The forum, to be held in Ottawa and co-chaired by Justice Minister Arif Virani, Public Safety Minister David McGuinty, and Minister Bendayan, reflects the government’s commitment to addressing and preventing antisemitic incidents. This initiative comes in the wake of troubling events, including a suspicious fire at a Montreal synagogue and multiple gunshots fired at a Jewish girls school in Toronto.
The Toronto police hate crime unit is actively investigating the recent shooting incidents at the Jewish girls school, with the most recent attack occurring in the early hours of Friday. Meanwhile, the Montreal police arson unit is looking into the fire at the synagogue, where witnesses reported seeing a suspect fleeing the scene.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned these acts as antisemitic, cowardly, and hateful, emphasizing that law enforcement is working to bring the perpetrators to justice. Public Safety Minister McGuinty echoed these sentiments, stating that there is no place in Canada for such conduct, and expressing solidarity with the Jewish community.
Statistics Canada reports a concerning increase in hate crimes against Jewish individuals, with 900 police-reported incidents in 2023. Toronto police noted that 56% of reported hate crimes in the early months of 2024 targeted Jewish people, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
In a recent interview, outgoing U.S. ambassador to Canada David Cohen expressed his concern about the prevalence of antisemitism in Canada compared to the United States. He emphasized the need for aggressive action to combat antisemitism in all its forms, calling for a rejection of hate and a commitment to Canadian values of inclusivity and tolerance.
Despite these challenges, Cohen found hope in a recent event where Muslim and Jewish law students came together to promote diversity and understanding. He underscored the importance of taking a stand against antisemitism and working towards a more inclusive and accepting society.
As the federal government prepares for the national forum on combatting antisemitism, it is clear that concerted efforts are needed to address the rise in hate crimes targeting the Jewish community. By bringing key stakeholders together to discuss solutions and strategies, Canada can reaffirm its commitment to combating hate and promoting a society where all individuals are respected and valued.
