There is a growing list of unsafe places for the Jewish community in Canada

Addressing Anti-Semitism in Canada: A Call to Action

Michael Geist has the Canada Research Chair in Internet and E-commerce Law at the Faculty of the University of Ottawa.

Growing up, my family always referred to it as the ‘Kosher Loblaws’. Situated in College Square on the west side of Ottawa, this Loblaws location was our go-to spot for kosher groceries, recipe ingredients, and Challah bread for Shabbat. As the sole provider of kosher goods in Ottawa, it not only served as a convenient shopping destination but also as a hub for the local Jewish community.

A recent incident involving a 71-year-old man from Cornwall has shaken the community. Thankfully, the grandmother, a well-known figure in Ottawa’s Jewish community, is now recovering at home. However, the attack, fueled by anti-Semitic sentiments as evident from the attacker’s social media history, has prompted the Ottawa police to investigate it as a hate-motivated crime.

This unsettling event hits close to home and raises concerns about the prevalence of anti-Semitism in Canada in 2025.

While no single individual or entity can completely eradicate anti-Semitic attacks, it is imperative for politicians, community leaders, and citizens to take a stand against such hatred. The rise of anti-Semitism in recent years demands more than generic statements denouncing all forms of hatred; it requires concrete actions to protect the Jewish community.

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Words alone are not enough. Leaders must unequivocally condemn anti-Semitism without reservation or ambiguity. By actively supporting the Jewish community and implementing effective measures, such as bubble-zone legislation to safeguard vulnerable institutions, we can work towards combating anti-Semitic behavior.

Anti-Semitism is not just a local issue but a global concern. Recent events in Australia, where Iranian-sponsored anti-Semitic attacks occurred, highlight the need for a coordinated national security approach to address such threats.

Silence and inaction only embolden perpetrators of hate. It is crucial for all individuals, whether politicians, community leaders, or ordinary citizens, to actively challenge and combat anti-Semitism in all its forms. By standing together against hatred, we can create a more inclusive and respectful society for all.