A chilling resolution is needed for Canada’s leaders: a firm rejection of the insidious normalization of antisemitism. The current climate, where intimidation and vandalism targeting Jewish communities are often excused or downplayed, demands immediate and decisive action.
Since the horrific attacks by Hamas on October 7th, 2023, Canada has witnessed a disturbing surge in antisemitism – the worst outbreak since the 1930s. This isn’t a spontaneous eruption; it’s a consequence of tolerance, of allowing hateful demonstrations to fester and spread.
The statistics paint a stark picture. Over the past two years, a staggering 70% of all religion-based hate crimes reported to Canadian police were directed at Jews, a community representing less than 1% of the national population. This disparity isn’t accidental; it’s a direct result of unchecked hostility.
The silence from authorities has been deafening, creating a dangerous perception that animosity towards Jews is somehow justified by the actions of the Israeli government. This is a perilous equation, equating the actions of a state with the targeting of an entire religious group.
The consequences of inaction are terrifyingly clear. The recent tragedy at Bondi Beach in Australia, where Jews celebrating Hanukkah were brutally attacked, serves as a grim warning. Downplaying Jew-hatred allows it to metastasize into violence.
Ironically, the pro-Hamas movement should be celebrating this escalating hostility. Hamas, a designated terrorist organization in Canada since 2002, has openly praised the Canadian government’s actions three times since the October 7th massacre.
These expressions of approval stem from Canada’s votes at the United Nations, threats of sanctions against Israel, and even the recognition of the state of Palestine – actions Hamas views as validating its terrorist agenda. Each concession fuels the flames of hatred.
Canada stands at a critical juncture. The New Year must bring a resolute commitment to combating antisemitism, not with empty platitudes, but with the consistent and unwavering enforcement of existing laws against hate, assault, vandalism, and intimidation. The time for tolerance of intolerance is over.
