August 8, 2025

August 8, 2025 | 14 Av 5785 | Candle lighting at 8:22 p.m.

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Many of you have already heard what happened last weekend—and like me, you may be feeling a mix of sadness, concern, and determination. On Tisha B’Av, an antisemitic message was found scrawled on a pillar at the entrance of Congregation Emanu-El in Victoria. This wasn’t just graffiti on a building. It was a direct attack on our sense of safety and belonging. Click here to learn more.

You can’t separate this act of antisemitism, committed on Shabbat, from the lack of moral clarity exhibited by our political leaders regarding the announcement to prematurely recognize a Palestinian state based on promises of future reforms like holding elections without Hamas, demilitarizing, and restructuring governance. This has emboldened a vitriolic minority that’s been targeting our community for nearly two years.

Just days after the announcement, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad released disturbing footage of Israeli hostages Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David—two of the 20 hostages still believed to be alive in Gaza. Frail and suffering, their images were used as propaganda to exploit the international shift toward the state's recognition.

Then, on Wednesday, Hamas called for escalated violence and intimidation in cities around the world this weekend (August 8–10). At this time, there is no increased threat to our local community. Your safety and peace of mind remain our top priorities, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant. And remember, if you see something, say something.

How we respond to moments like this—how we push back against extremism—is how we’ll protect not just the Jewish community, but all communities across Canada. Our advocacy partner, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), is calling on Canadians to take action: tell the Prime Minister, No recognition without real change. Take action here.

Let’s be clear: returning hostages and recognizing the State of Israel must be part of any meaningful path forward. These aren’t side issues—they’re foundational. Recognition without real change sends the wrong message and puts our community at greater risk. Just last week, we shared an alarming statistic: Jewish people in Canada are 25 times more likely to be targeted by hate than the average Canadian.
We’ve seen deeply troubling incidents targeting synagogues in cities like Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto—including firebombings, shootings, and other acts of hate.

Groups like Samidoun—a listed terrorist entity—continue to operate freely, promoting events, mobilizing online, and hiding behind front groups and coalitions. And now, we’re seeing the consequences unfold in real time. The Victoria Police Department has released a photo of the suspect. P lease share it with your friends and family.

If you’ve personally experienced antisemitism, we urge you to report it. I know it can feel uncomfortable, but your story matters. Every report helps us build a clearer picture of what’s happening and strengthens our ability to advocate for real change. Please only report incidents you’ve directly experienced to ensure credibility. It’s quick, confidential, and impactful. You can do so here: jewishvancouver.com/how-to-report-antisemitism.

Jewish Union Members Are Speaking Up—And Organizing
And while reporting incidents is one important way to respond, we’re also seeing the power of organizing, especially in the workplace. We’re hearing from more and more Jewish union members across BC—especially in education and healthcare—who are facing challenges in their workplaces. But there’s strength in organizing. Jewish union members have been mobilizing through the Canadian Jewish Labour Committee (CJLC), a national effort to foster inclusion, combat antisemitism, and build solidarity across Canada’s labour movement.

If you or someone in your family is part of a union, I encourage you to join the CJLC. It’s a powerful way to make sure Jewish voices are heard and respected.

Two Conversations You Don’t Want to Miss: Gaza Aid & Canada’s Foreign Policy
This week, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) hosted journalist Haviv Rettig Gur for a special update on the situation in Israel, highlighting the ongoing challenges in getting aid into Gaza due to looting by civilians and armed groups, which you can watch here. CIJA held a timely briefing with Alan Kessel, Senior Fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, to unpack the implications of recognizing Palestinian statehood at this moment. Watch it here.

L’Chaim in Full Swing: Connection and Community for Seniors
On a positive note, summer doesn’t slow down at L’Chaim. This isn’t just a day program—it’s a vibrant, welcoming space where seniors living with chronic health challenges or facing social isolation feel connected, supported, and seen. Every weekday, participants enjoy arts, fitness, and outings that keep them active and engaged.

L’Chaim has long been a vital part of our community, and it’s been inspiring to see their growth. In February 2024, they expanded to five days a week and now welcome 16 seniors each day, double their previous capacity. That kind of progress takes partnership: Jewish Federation, CIJA, the Seniors Advocate, L’Chaim’s board, and their executive director all played a role. Learn more here.

There’s still time to get early bird tickets for campaign opening!

As the event approaches, just a quick reminder—early bird tickets end next week! We’re kicking off the 2025 Campaign with a night of laughter, connection, and community featuring Elon Gold. It’s going to be a meaningful and fun night—I’d love to see you there.
Secure your tickets now.

Help Us Welcome the ShinShinim to Our Community.

Before I sign off, just a quick reminder to join us on Wednesday, August 13, at 8:00 p.m. We’ll be welcoming our four amazing new ShinShinim—Gur, Nehorai, Noa B, and Noa R—live from Israel on Zoom. It’s a great chance to meet them and give them a warm Vancouver welcome. Learn more and register here.

Shabbat shalom,