Housefather and other MPs issue call for action against rise of antisemitism

Liberal MPs Call for Action Against Rise in Antisemitism

In a recent development, nearly a fifth of the Liberal caucus has come forward to address the concerning rise in antisemitism following a disturbing incident at an Ottawa grocery store. The incident involved a Jewish woman in her 70s being stabbed, prompting outrage and calls for action.

Mount Royal MP Anthony Housefather took to social media to share a letter signed by 31 other Liberal lawmakers, condemning the “deplorable” increase in antisemitism. The letter highlights the alarming trend of antisemitism becoming normalized in Canada, a troubling shift from just a few years ago.

Authorities in Ottawa have charged a 71-year-old man with aggravated assault in connection to the stabbing, which is being treated as a hate-motivated crime. The MPs’ letter emphasizes that such incidents were once shocking but are now sadly less surprising.

The letter serves as a rallying cry for action, urging Canadians, government bodies, law enforcement, schools, and workplaces to confront and combat the spread of hate. It stresses the collective responsibility to address antisemitism and other forms of discrimination.

Upcoming Actions

The timing of this call to action is significant, with an internal caucus meeting scheduled for next week and Parliament set to reconvene on September 15. The issue of combating antisemitism is expected to be a key topic of discussion as lawmakers consider measures to address the troubling trend.

This report by The Canadian Press sheds light on the urgent need for action against antisemitism and serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against hate in all its forms.