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April 4, 2025 | 6 Nissan 5785 | Candle lighting at 7:31 p.m.
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This message has about 750 words and will take about 3 minutes to read.
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This week, our community was reminded once again of the challenges we face. A pro-Palestinian protest unfolded right outside the Jewish Community Centre (JCC), a deeply unsettling moment for many. We strongly condemn this protest and reaffirm that ethno-cultural institutions must never be targeted. These actions are unacceptable and amount to collective punishment.
The JCC is a cornerstone of Jewish life in our city—a space where seniors gather, children learn, and families connect. Targeting Jewish individuals and others in a place meant for community and belonging violates the fundamental principles of respect and coexistence. While we fully support freedom of expression, protests that threaten the well-being and security of our community have no place here. You can read our joint statement here.
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This week’s events highlighted the realities we continue to navigate and are confronted with as a community.
Now is not the time to step back—it is the time to engage, mobilize, and focus on impact.
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One of the most powerful ways to do so is through civic participation. Vancouver’s City Council by-election takes place this Saturday, April 5, and Canada’s Federal Election follows on Monday, April 28.
These are critical moments to ensure that our voices are heard. We urge you to not only get out and vote but also step up!
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Volunteer on a political campaign of your choice here.
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Host a CJPAC parlour meeting to discuss what is at stake by reaching out to [email protected].
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Sign up for weekly updates for actions you can take as Jewish voters at www.jewishcanadavotes.ca/.
Through engagement, education, and action, we can shape the future of our community.
You are also invited to an exclusive in-person community event: The Jewish Community, The Federal Election and You, an afternoon of awareness, discussion, and education co-hosted by the Canadian Jewish Political Affairs Committee (CJPAC), our advocacy agent, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), and Jewish Federation.
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CJPAC will discuss the importance of political engagement, CIJA will address key policy issues, and we will share insights on community demographics. Join us this Sunday, April 6, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. PST.
Register here.
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As we prepare for Passover, we are reminded that in these challenging times, coming together is more important than ever.
This year, extend your table and open your door to welcome an ally, a friend, a neighbor who may not have experienced a Seder before. Through shared meals and conversation, we strengthen connections and reaffirm our collective identity—in both celebration and response to adversity.
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Our community is buzzing with Passover gatherings, from a Women's Seder to a Chocolate Seder for kids, as well as Family and Community Seders. Find all the events around you, and come together with community near and far!
Find all the events here.
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Speaking of events, we have several fantastic opportunities to connect with community this April.
Our partner the Vancouver Jewish Film Centre (VJFC) is hosting the 26th Annual Vancouver Jewish Film Festival which runs from April 24 to May 4. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to our community, VJFC is a place for all to explore the richness and diversity of Jewish life. Tickets are now on sale. Check out their incredibly impressive lineup of films here.
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On April 29, our community will mark Yom HaZikaron with a memorial service honouring Israel’s fallen soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in war and terror attacks. The service is available both online and in person. Registration is required to attend both.
You can register here.
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The next day we will celebrate 77 years of Israel’s independence at our community Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration, where we will dance to the music of Ruchot HaTzafon from our partnership region in Northern Israel, alongside Nova Festival survivors.
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If you haven't secured your tickets yet, don't worry— you can purchase them here and join us on the dance floor Wednesday, April 30.
Be part of this unforgettable night—because together, We Will Dance Again!
Purchase your tickets here.
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Before we sign off for Shabbat, I would like to highlight that our community connectors are creating opportunities to engage in Jewish life across the region. From women's candle-making in Burnaby to a seniors' meetup in Port Coquitlam, there's something for everyone. Make sure to follow us on Facebook or Instagram, or visit our community calendar to check out upcoming events.
Shabbat Shalom,
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Ezra S. Shanken
CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver
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The Fay and Ken Golden Annual Scholarship Application is open until May 31. More here.
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Ner Atid – Childcare survey: Help Shape the Future of Jewish Childcare in Vancouver here!
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The Burrard bridge march and rally is on Sunday, April 6 at 11:00 am.
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On Sunday, April 6, at 2:00 pm, the community will mark 18 months since October 7th.
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This federal election, you need to do much more than just cast a ballot. Learn more here.
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