Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ In response to escalating antisemitic incidents, including a shooting at the Bais Chaya Mushka Elementary School in Toronto and an arson attack on the Beth Tikvah Synagogue in Montréal, the Canadian government announced the establishment of a National Forum on Combating Antisemitism. Scheduled for February in Ottawa, the forum aims to unite representatives from all levels of government, law enforcement, and community organizations to address the alarming rise in hate crimes targeting Jewish Canadians.
The Justice Department highlighted the urgency of the issue, noting the troubling increase in antisemitic acts and the importance of ensuring that Jewish Canadians feel secure in their places of worship, schools, and communities. “This forum underscores Canada’s commitment to tackling hate in all its forms and protecting all its citizens,” the department stated in a press release.
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Ya’ara Saks underscored the necessity of a comprehensive approach to combating antisemitism. “We must ensure every Canadian feels safe. Addressing antisemitism requires a whole-of-society strategy,” she shared on social media. Her remarks drew sharp criticism from Conservative MP Melissa Lantsman, who accused the Liberal government of inaction over the past 14 months as hate crimes surged.
Deborah Lyons, Canada’s Special Envoy for Holocaust Remembrance and Combating Antisemitism, emphasized that antisemitism transcends partisan divides and urged leaders from all political affiliations to join the forum. “Jews remain the number one target of reported hate crimes in Canada despite comprising just over 1% of the population,” she remarked.
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), which has long called for decisive action, stressed the need for tangible results from the forum. Vice President Richard Marceau emphasized the necessity of enforcing laws, prosecuting offenders, and criminalizing the glorification of terrorism. “The safety of our community is under attack, as are the values and freedoms we hold dear as Canadians,” he stated, urging leaders to prioritize actionable solutions over symbolic gestures.
The recent attacks have heightened fear within Jewish communities. The Bais Chaya Mushka Elementary School suffered its third attack this year in a drive-by shooting, while a large public Hanukkiah was vandalized the same night. In Montréal, firebombings targeted the Beth Tikvah Synagogue and another Jewish community building, marking the seventh attack on Jewish institutions in the city within 14 months.
These incidents have sparked international concern. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called on Canada to enact decisive measures to combat antisemitism, while U.S. Special Envoy Deborah Lipstadt noted the global nature of the issue, citing similar attacks in Melbourne and Cape Town. Meanwhile, Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli claimed Canada was no longer safe for Jews, a statement rebutted by Liberal MP Anthony Housefather, who argued that while antisemitism had risen, Canada remained one of the safest countries for Jewish communities.
In addition to the forum, Canada’s Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights recently recommended measures to protect community buildings and religious sites. Local initiatives, such as Toronto’s proposed “bubble bylaw” to restrict protests near vulnerable institutions, reflect a growing acknowledgment of the need for localized solutions. Similar measures in Vaughan and Oakville have already been enacted, though critics warn of potential infringements on freedom of expression.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the recent attacks, calling them “hateful and antisemitic,” but faced criticism from opposition leaders for not taking more robust action earlier. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre accused the government of neglecting its duty to protect citizens, while CIJA expressed frustration with Montréal Mayor Valérie Plante’s perceived lack of urgency in addressing antisemitic incidents.
The National Forum on Combating Antisemitism represents a critical opportunity for Canada to reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity and safety. Jewish leaders, advocates, and policymakers hope that this initiative will lead to meaningful change, ensuring that Jewish Canadians can live without fear in their schools, synagogues, and neighbourhood’s.
