June 13, 2025

A crowd of people holding signs at a protest, with a prominent sign reading "How to Report Antisemitism" in bold text.

June 13, 2025 | 17 Sivan 5785 | Candle lighting at 9:01 p.m.

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As we head into Shabbat, we find ourselves witnessing a historic moment in Middle Eastern history. We stand in unwavering solidarity with our family and friends in Israel during this state of emergency, and ask you to join us in praying for the Israeli Defence Forces. Read the statement published by our advocacy agent, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), about the situation here. Join CIJA in sending a message to the Prime Minister to stand with Israel, defend democracy, and stop a nuclear-armed Iran. Take Action Here.

We understand this situation is deeply concerning to our community and want to assure you that we are closely monitoring it in coordination with our national partners. At this time, there is no increased threat to our local community. Your safety and peace of mind remain our highest priorities, and we encourage everyone to stay alert.

If you're looking for a meaningful way to make an impact, consider getting involved with Bitachon, our community security volunteering initiative. We want to take a moment to acknowledge their commitment. They are always there for us, and mobilize quickly when needed. Learn more here.

Standing Together Against Antisemitism in Canada

This past week has been a painful yet powerful reminder of the challenges our community faces here at home—and the strength we continue to show in response. Since the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks, Jewish communities across Canada have experienced an alarming rise in antisemitic harassment, threats, and intimidation.

These tensions escalated again this week when a protest targeted my friend and community member, MLA Nina Krieger, Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film, and former Executive Director of the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre. She was not targeted for her political role—she was targeted because she’s Jewish.

Nico Slobinsky, CIJA's vice-president for the Pacific Region, emphasized the need to collaborate with elected leaders and law enforcement to ensure that no one is unsafe because of who they are. Read more here.

And the impact was felt not just locally, but nationally. We saw another painful example of antisemitism in our nation’s capital.

The National Holocaust Monument in Ottawa—a space dedicated to remembrance and reflection—was defaced. This was a vile act of hate, and incidents like these reverberate far beyond their physical damage—they strike at the heart of our collective sense of safety and belonging.

These acts aren’t isolated. They reflect a deeply troubling pattern being felt across British Columbia. In March 2025, we released a survey exposing this deeply troubling trend: 62% of Jewish community members in British Columbia reported experiencing at least one antisemitic incident, and 93% said they feel less secure since October 7, 2023.

Combatting Antisemitism Across the Province
At Jewish Federation, we’ve taken this responsibility seriously. In the days following the attacks, we launched the Antisemitism and Israel Crisis Response Team (AICRT), bringing together professionals and volunteer leaders to ensure a rapid and coordinated community response. What began as an emergency effort has grown into Combatting Antisemitism—a comprehensive, long-term initiative supported by a dedicated Task Force and a Fund to Combat Antisemitism focused on building resilience and driving systemic impact.

This work is already taking root across the province. Emet Davis, Director of Community Organizing Against Antisemitism, and Selina Robinson have been travelling across the province, leading meaningful conversations about antisemitism, Jewish identity, and solidarity.

In communities like Comox Valley and Nanoose Bay, these gatherings have created much-needed spaces for dialogue, connection, and learning, providing communities with the tools they need to respond to rising antisemitism.

Report Incidents of Antisemitism
If you experience an act of antisemitism or a hate crime, please don’t stay silent—report it. Doing so not only creates a record of what happened but also plays a vital role in identifying common areas of security risks. Your input makes a real difference in our fight against antisemitism and in building a safer, more inclusive community for all.

It’s critical to report all incidents to both local authorities and Jewish Federation to help capture the breadth of what's happening locally. If you see something, say something.

A Visit from the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center

Michael Levitt, President and CEO of the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies Canada, visited us with Jaime Stein, the new Director for Western Canada. We also bid farewell to Michael Sachs as he concludes his tenure and prepares for a new chapter with his family. We are grateful for his dedication and leadership in our community.

Celebrating Milestones: King David High School Graduation and Honouring Rev. Joseph Marciano

King David High School’s Grade 12 students celebrated two significant moments this week: their meaningful Havdalah ceremony and, just days later, their graduation. The Havdalah marked a time of reflection on their Jewish journeys, while graduation was a moment to look ahead to the exciting path that lay before them.

Mazal tov to all the graduates as they step forward with hope, excitement, and endless possibilities.

We also extend a heartfelt yasher koach to Rev. Joseph Marciano, recognized this week for more than 40 years of exceptional service to our community. Through countless acts of chesed (kindness) and kavod (honour), he has been there for every simcha, every sorrow, and every sacred moment in between. His unwavering presence has been a pillar of strength, dignity, and continuity for us all.

Am Israel chai.
Shabbat shalom,