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This week, Israelis and the global Jewish community honoured the 24,068 sons and daughters who sacrificed their life in defense of Israel and the 4,216 civilians who were murdered in terrorist attacks against the Jewish people, before celebrating its 74th birthday.

At countless ceremonies and celebrations across the globe, including in Canadian cities, we joined together in recognition of the high cost our community has paid to have a Jewish homeland. We are grateful to the many elected officials, dignitaries, and community members who attended public commemorations, including flag-raisings in Ottawa, Toronto and a community rally in Montreal. 

Tragically, as Yom Ha’atzamut came to a close, Palestinian terrorists took the lives of three Jewish men and injured four in a brutal knife - and axe - attack in central Israel, leaving 16 children fatherless. We were horrified to learn that, as #Israel mourned the victims, extremist Palestinians in Gaza celebrated yet again by distributing sweets. 

Ontario is going to the polls on June 2! To support the community, we have launched an election website with information and resources to help our community be informed voters. The website includes details about, among other topics, advance voting options, where to vote, roles and responsibilities of the provincial government, and how to volunteer or donate money to parties. 

May is Jewish Heritage month in Canada, celebrating the remarkable contributions that our community has made to Canadian society.

There are many ways you can join in commemorating this important month, including learning more about Canadian Jewish history at the Alex Dworkin Canadian Jewish Archives or the Ontario Jewish Archives; taking tours of Jewish neighbourhoods in Toronto and Montreal and Vancouver; and spending time at your local Jewish community centre, or local synagogue, to meet your Jewish neighbours. You can also visit Jewish museums in Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Montreal.

If your have suggestions on how we can celebrate Jewish Heritage Month, please let us know at [email protected].

Patrick Brown under fire for comments about Israeli-Palestinian conflict (National Post)

Toronto police chief says hate crimes unit will be at the annual Al-Quds rally; tells protesters to keep the event lawful and peaceful (The CJN) 

Noah Shack on Al Quds Day in Toronto (CP24)

Al-Quds Day Rally in Toronto less vitriolic than in past years—but still not ‘benign’, Jewish groups say (THE CJN) 

Criminalization of Holocaust Denial: A Major New Tool in Fighting Antisemitism in Canada (CIJA Press Release) 

Ontario Government Relations Professional 

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