August 15, 2025

A street scene featuring a bus stop with a sign reading "FREE PALESTINE NOW!" and a smaller sign stating "SIDEWALK CLOSED," surrounded by construction signs and traffic cones.

August 15, 2025 | 21 Av 5785 | Candle lighting at 8:10 p.m.

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Yesterday, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) reversed its decision to uninvite the Canadian documentary The Road Between Us. I felt immense pride watching how swiftly and passionately our community—and Canadians from all walks of life—responded. Thanks to the collective strength of tens of thousands of voices, including civic leaders, elected officials, artists, and everyday citizens, who stood up for what’s right, TIFF listened.

This victory was made possible thanks to the tireless advocacy of The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and many other Jewish organizations, who mobilized quickly and effectively. It wasn’t just about one film—it was a powerful affirmation of our shared values: freedom of expression, inclusion, and justice. When we speak up with conviction and unity, we make change. Let’s carry that energy forward, proud of who we are and what we stand for. Read more here.

Responding to Graffiti
On a more local note, it was very upsetting to see the latest act of vandalism at a bus stop in front of King David High School this week. Acts like this undermine the values of respect and inclusion that we as Canadians share.
If you see graffiti, don’t ignore it. In Vancouver, report it quickly at van311.ca.

Each municipality has its own process for handling graffiti. You can find details in our Community Toolkit or by visiting your city’s website.

Creating Meaningful Jewish Connections at Summer Camp

Even as we confront challenges, we also celebrate the moments that bring us joy and strengthen our community. This week, we're highlighting two of our partners—Camp Hatikvah and Camp Miriam—which wrapped up their sessions with incredible success.

For many young participants, camp is more than just fun—it is a transformative experience. Being away from home helps them build new social and emotional skills, while also strengthening their Jewish identity and connection to Israel.

Both camps welcomed Israeli staff and participants, creating powerful opportunities for local youth to connect personally with peers from Israel. A special highlight: for the first time, we supported two girls from Mevo’ot Hermon municipality, in our partnership region, through the Camp Hatikvah “Mishpacha Program.”

Lola Nozick, Mijal Ben-Dori, Dafna Silberstein and Or Shukrun

Gal Lener and Roni Fridman. Chaperone: Dikla Lerner

Mijal Ben-Dori, our chief planning officer, and Dafna Silberstein, director, grants and allocations, spent time at both camps this summer and experienced the impact up close. They returned inspired and moved—sharing stories of campers singing Hebrew songs around the fire, forming friendships across cultures, and discovering new layers of their Jewish identity. Their visit was a beautiful reminder of why this work matters.

Thanks to your generosity through our Annual Campaign, Jewish Federation allocates campership funds to both overnight camps, ensuring these life-changing experiences are accessible to all.

Compassion in Action: Support for Those Navigating Addiction

Not every part of community life is visible—and some of the most important work happens quietly. In our work, we sometimes hear quiet stories of individuals navigating addiction, and of loved ones doing their best to support them. These stories are full of courage, pain, and hope—and they remind us of something simple but profound: no one should have to face this alone.

That’s why we’re proud to highlight two incredible support groups offered by our partner agency, Jewish Family Services (JFS), through Jewish Addiction Community Service (JACS) Vancouver:

Bi-Weekly Support Group for Those Struggling with Addiction

It's a peer-led, confidential space for individuals in recovery or seeking support. It’s a place to be seen, heard, and supported.

JACS Family Circle: Support Group for Loved Ones

For those walking alongside someone in active addiction, this weekly group offers a Jewish-informed, spiritually grounded space to process and heal.

Both groups are free, compassionate, and deeply needed. If this speaks to you—or someone you care about—please know that support is here. Learn more and find upcoming meetings here.

Last Chance for Early Bird Tickets!

Today is your last chance to grab Early Bird tickets for the 2025 Federation Annual Campaign Opening.

Stand Up for Community with an evening filled with laughter, meaningful connections, and the energy of a community coming together. Purchase your Early Bird tickets today.

Jewish Federation’s Annual General Meeting
Then, following the campaign opening, join us on Thursday, September 18th, at 6:30 p.m. for our Annual General Meeting and learn about the incredible impact we are making together.

Following the meeting, we’ll come together for a post-reception to honour some of our allies, recognizing individuals outside of the Jewish community who have demonstrated outstanding courage, leadership, and support for our community, particularly in the face of rising antisemitism.

Location details will be shared with registrants one day before the event. Register here.

Shabbat shalom,