Israel solidarity walk in Toronto needed amid rising antisemitism, organizer says
Tens of thousands of people gathered in Toronto on Sunday for an annual fundraising walk in solidarity with Israel, in response to the rising antisemitism that has plagued the Jewish community in Canada. The event, hosted by the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, aimed to show support for Israel and raise awareness about the recent surge in hate crimes targeting Jewish individuals.
Sara Lefton, the chief development officer for the UJA Federation, emphasized the importance of community support during these challenging times. She highlighted the alarming statistics from Statistics Canada, which reported a 71% increase in hate crimes against the Jewish population between 2022 and 2023. The Jewish community has been feeling increasingly isolated following the Hamas-led attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, and the subsequent rise in antisemitism.
The solidarity walk took place amidst heightened tensions, following the tragic shooting of two Israeli Embassy employees outside a Jewish museum in Washington, D.C. The incident was condemned globally as a targeted antisemitic hate crime, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked hatred.
Approximately 56,000 individuals participated in the walk, showing their support for Israel and standing against antisemitism. However, not everyone viewed the event in the same light. Molly Kraft, an advocate with the Jews Say No to Genocide Coalition, expressed her concerns about the walk being perceived as a show of support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza. She emphasized the need to address the violence and destruction affecting Palestinian lives.
Despite differing opinions, the walk aimed to raise funds for humanitarian relief efforts in Israel, focusing on aiding families and communities affected by the traumatic events of Oct. 7. The funds raised will support mental health initiatives for individuals with PTSD and contribute to rebuilding efforts in areas devastated by the conflict.
The event took place amidst escalating tensions, with Israel raising its travel alert for Canada due to potential threats. The Israeli National Security Council warned of possible violence at pro-Israel rallies, urging attendees to follow security protocols and avoid confrontations with anti-Israel protests.
The walk concluded with a festival at UJA’s Sherman Campus, where participants celebrated their unity and support for Israel. The event served as a platform for individuals to come together, share their stories, and show solidarity with the Jewish community in Canada and Israel. Despite the challenges and complexities of the situation, the overarching message remained one of peace, safety, and hope for a better future for all involved.
