In what appears to be a disturbing escalation of violence, a Jewish school in Montreal was targeted by gunfire for the second time in three days. This incident follows the earlier shootings that occurred just days ago, raising concerns about the safety and security of Montreal’s Jewish community.
The Yeshiva Gedola school in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood became the focal point of a second round of gunfire, prompting immediate condemnation from local politicians. Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante, expressing solidarity with the Jewish community, deemed the act “odious” and emphasized that such violence goes against the values that Montreal stands for.
Quebec Premier François Legault issued a stern warning, pledging that every effort would be made to identify and punish the perpetrators. He urged against importing the hatred and violence seen elsewhere in the world, underlining the need for unity and tolerance.
Members of the Canadian Parliament also weighed in on the situation. MP Marc Miller labeled the shooting as “cowardly,” while Liberal lawmaker Anthony Housefather stressed that antisemitic acts should not be allowed to become the new normal.
The incident took place around 5 a.m., with emergency services receiving multiple calls after gunshots rang out in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood. Montreal police confirmed the discovery of bullet holes and casings at the Yeshiva Gedola school on Deacon Road.
Fortunately, no one was inside the building at the time, and there were no reported injuries. Witnesses mentioned seeing a vehicle leaving the scene after the shots were fired. The investigation has been handed over to the SPVM’s hate crimes unit.
This latest attack comes in the wake of two firebombings earlier in the week, targeting a synagogue and an office belonging to the Jewish advocacy group Federation CJA. These incidents, coupled with the recent shootings, underscore a concerning trend of rising antisemitism in the city.
Premier Legault, in a statement, expressed solidarity with the Jewish community, vowing to punish the culprits. Mayor Plante emphasized that all Montrealers have the right to feel safe and condemned these repeated acts of hatred.
As investigations unfold, concerns are mounting about the safety and well-being of Montreal’s Jewish population. The incidents have garnered national attention, prompting federal officials. The question remains as to how authorities will address this unsettling pattern and ensure the security of the affected communities.
I want to unequivocally state that hate speech and hateful actions against any individual or community are wholly unacceptable. Regardless of one’s faith, ethnicity, or background, every person deserves to live free from fear, discrimination, and violence.
It is disheartening to witness incidents of violence, such as the recent attacks on Jewish schools in Montreal. Such actions not only go against the principles of coexistence and understanding but also undermine the very essence of our shared humanity.
It is crucial that society, irrespective of religious or cultural affiliations, comes together to condemn these acts and work towards fostering an environment of tolerance and acceptance. Freedom, be it of speech or expression, or action, should never be manipulated as a guise for promoting hatred or violence.
Determining serious actions against those who exploit the freedom of expression to propagate hate is of utmost importance. It requires a collective effort from communities, leaders, and law enforcement to ensure that individuals who engage in such harmful behavior are held accountable for their actions.
In the pursuit of human rights, it is imperative to strike a balance that safeguards the dignity and safety of every individual while respecting the principles of free expression. It is my hope that society can stand united against hate, fostering an atmosphere where diversity is celebrated, and everyone can coexist peacefully.