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September 11, 2026 | 29 Elul 5786 | Candle lighting at 7:16 p.m.
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This message has approximately 934 words and will take about 3 minutes to read.
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| On Wednesday evening, our community gathered for a remarkable conversation between Rabbi Dan Moskovitz and legendary musician and cultural icon Boy George. |
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They explored identity, resilience and the experiences that have shaped Boy George's extraordinary life and career. It was an opportunity to hear directly from one of the most recognizable artists of my generation, whose influence extends far beyond the stage.
Boy George's long-standing support for the Jewish community and Israel made the evening especially meaningful. |
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| In 2017, despite significant pressure from the BDS movement to cancel his concert in Tel Aviv, he chose to perform, making it clear that he would not allow politics or intimidation to dictate where he shares his music. In the years since, he has continued to speak out against antisemitism and publicly support his Jewish friends and the Jewish community.
The highlight of the evening came when he performed "We Will Dance Again" live for the first time in Vancouver before hundreds of attendees. Written in the aftermath of October 7, the song is both a tribute to those who were lost and a message of resilience, hope and healing. Experiencing that performance together was moving and unforgettable.
At a time when too many people remain silent in the face of rising antisemitism, his message served as a powerful reminder that courage matters and that using your voice to stand against hate can make a difference.
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Inspired by Boy George's bravery and speaker Emet Davis' call not just to give, but to activate, True Love Club was created the next day to keep that energy alive, wear the message proudly, continue the conversation and turn inspiration into action. Proceeds will go to our Combatting Antisemitism Fund. Visit True Love Club here.
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Proceeds from ticket sales were also directed to Federation's Combatting Antisemitism Fund. If you were unable to attend or would still like to support this important work, please click here to donate.
We are deeply grateful to Boy George for sharing his story, his music and his unwavering support, and to Rabbi Dan Moskovitz for leading such a thoughtful and engaging conversation, as well as the staff and volunteers of Temple Sholom, event partner CIJA and our staff, security team and Bitachon volunteers who worked behind the scenes to help ensure a safe, welcoming and successful event for everyone who attended.
A Community Built Together
That spirit of partnership, shared responsibility and collective strength is something I see every day across British Columbia. It is also what inspires this year's Annual Campaign theme: We Are Federation.
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| I am excited to share that our 2026 Annual Campaign is officially underway.
This year's theme reflects a truth I witness across our province every day. Federation is not a building, an office or a single organization. It is the collective strength of a community that comes together to care for one another, support those in need, celebrate Jewish life and invest in future generations.
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| Across British Columbia, families are navigating rising costs, community organizations are facing growing demands, and concerns around antisemitism continue to affect how people gather and participate in Jewish life. Yet I remain inspired by the way our community continues to respond.
Every day, I see donors, agency professionals, lay leaders and community members stepping forward to make a difference. Together, we care for community, create opportunities for connection and belonging, strengthen Jewish life across British Columbia and deepen our connection to Israel.
Federation brings people, organizations and resources together around our community's most important priorities. We invest in caring for those in need, strengthening Jewish education and identity, combatting antisemitism, supporting Israel and building vibrant Jewish life throughout British Columbia. When we work collectively, we can accomplish far more together than any of us can alone.
We Are Federation is more than a campaign theme. It reflects what happens when each of us contributes in our own way. Click here to make your gift and help strengthen the programs, services and connections that make our community thrive.
Join Us for Opening Night
One of the highlights of my year is seeing our community gather for Opening Night, and I hope you'll join me on September 16 as we launch the 2026 Annual Campaign with special guest Ben Mulroney.
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Opening Night is an opportunity to spend time with people who care deeply about Jewish life in British Columbia. It's an evening of meaningful conversation, new ideas and shared commitment to our community's future.
If you haven't secured your ticket yet, we encourage you to do so. Purchase your tickets here.
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Gratitude in Action
This week, I had the privilege of joining members of our Community Security team at Vancouver Police Department headquarters, where we were recognized for supporting frontline officers and civilian professionals during the FIFA World Cup. |
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| Throughout the World Cup, Federation was honoured to show our appreciation for those working long hours to keep our city safe by coordinating meals for officers and staff serving on the front lines. While a simple gesture, it reflected an important value in our community: caring for those who care for others. |
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| We are grateful to our Community Security team, volunteers and partners, and to the dedicated professionals at the Vancouver Police Department whose service often goes unseen. Their commitment is a reminder that acts of kindness, gratitude and shared responsibility help strengthen our community every day.
Looking Ahead to a New Year
As we enter the Days of Awe, may we do so with gratitude for the strength of our community, confidence in our collective future and a renewed commitment to speaking out, standing together and caring for one another.
On behalf of Jewish Federation of British Columbia, I wish you and your loved ones a Shana Tova U'metukah. May the coming year bring health, safety, strength, unity and peace.
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| Thank you, Roni Zada, our Graphics & Multimedia Designer, for the beautiful illustration featured in this Rosh Hashanah message. |
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| Shabbat Shalom and Happy New Year, |
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Ezra S. Shanken
CEO, Jewish Federation of British Columbia |
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| Join us for a rejuvenating beachside yoga gathering in Victoria. RSVP here. |
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| Join CJPAC and CIJA's Meet Your Next Vancouver Mayor event. RSVP here. |
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As we prepare to enter a new Jewish year, I reflected on where we are as a community, what we are building together across British Columbia, and the opportunities and responsibilities that lie ahead.
This is a moment to pause, look forward, and reconnect with the work that strengthens Jewish life. Watch the full webinar here. |
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