Representatives from B’nai Brith Canada gathered on Parliament Hill to unveil the findings of their annual audit on anti-Semitic incidents in Canada for the year 2023.
Henry Topaz, Quebec Regional Director of B’nai Brith Canada, opened the event by underlining the organization’s longstanding commitment to human rights, dating back to its founding in 1875. He was joined by Richard Robertson, Director of Research and Advocacy, and David Matas, Senior Legal Counsel, who echoed the significance of the audit’s findings.
The report revealed a staggering 5,791 incidents of anti-Semitism logged between January 1st and December 31st, 2023, marking an unprecedented increase of 109.5% compared to the previous year. Of particular concern was the rise in violent incidents, which surged by 208% in 2023.
Richard Robertson highlighted the systemic nature of the issue, attributing the spike to various factors including conflicts in Israel, the proliferation of online anti-Semitism, and heightened tensions on university campuses.
David Matas, in his address, emphasized the need for a systematic response to combat anti-Semitism, urging the implementation of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism. He called for swift action from both governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to address the crisis.
Political leaders Melissa Lantsman, Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party, Marco Mendicino, Liberal Member of Parliament, and Kevin Vuong, Independent Member of Parliament, representing different parties, voiced their solidarity with the Jewish community and pledged to take concrete steps to combat anti-Semitism. They underscored the importance of education, enforcement of existing laws, and proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of Jewish Canadians.
The speakers collectively condemned the rise of hate and discrimination, calling for unity in the face of adversity. They emphasized the urgency of addressing anti-Semitism as a societal issue, not limited to any particular community but impacting the fabric of Canadian society as a whole.
As the press conference concluded, the call for action echoed beyond Parliament Hill, resonating with Canadians nationwide. The release of B’nai Brith Canada’s audit served as a sobering reminder of the persistent threat of anti-Semitism and the imperative for concerted efforts to combat hate and intolerance in all its forms.