In a disturbing act of anti-Semitism, an incendiary device was thrown at the front doors of Schara Tzedeck Synagogue on Oak Street at approximately 9:30 p.m. last night. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the damage to the building was minor. The incident has triggered a wave of reactions from community leaders and local authorities, highlighting concerns over rising anti-Semitic rhetoric and violence in the region.
According to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), the device caused a fire near the entrance of the synagogue, which was quickly extinguished by members of the congregation before it could cause significant damage. VPD’s Major Crime Section is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Diversity, Community & Indigenous Relations Section, which is conducting extensive community outreach to ensure public safety.
“This fire was intentionally set at a place of worship for the Jewish community,” stated Constable Tania Visintin. “While we collect evidence to identify the person responsible, we’re also working closely with faith leaders and community members to ensure everyone’s safety.”
In a press release, the Jewish Federation expressed its unwavering support for the families and staff of Schara Tzedeck. “Antisemitic rhetoric has reached a feverish pitch in our city and region recently, and it has always been our concern that the next step would be violence. This deliberate act of hate was an attempt to intimidate our Jewish community. But we refuse to be intimidated or to hide. Our community is resilient, and we are proud to be an important part of the multicultural fabric of our city, our province, and our country.”
Mayor Ken Sim also condemned the attack in a statement, emphasizing Vancouver’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. “Vancouver is a city that prides itself on its diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all communities. We will not tolerate acts of hatred and violence against any group. Last night, our city witnessed a heinous act of anti-Semitism when an individual attempted to burn down the Schara Tzedeck Synagogue using an incendiary accelerant. We are grateful no one suffered physical harm as a result of this incident, but the impact on our community’s sense of safety cannot be overstated.”
In response to the attack, VPD has mobilized additional officers to patrol Jewish community centres, schools, and religious institutions across the city. “We’re doing everything in our power to solve this crime, while providing reassurance, comfort, and safety to the community,” added Constable Visintin. “We will continue to have a higher police presence in strategic locations throughout the coming days, as this investigation unfolds.”
The Jewish Federation has also advised all Jewish community organizations to remain vigilant and follow their established security protocols. The Community Security Advisory Committee is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed.
The Jewish Medical Association of BC, which had over 60 Jewish physicians and healthcare professionals meeting at the synagogue just 24 hours before the attack, released a statement emphasizing the link between incendiary rhetoric and violence. “Incendiary words like ‘Long live October 7’, heard on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery earlier the same day and over these past months, can lead to incendiary violence. We urge the provincial government and its institutions to take meaningful action immediately,” said spokesperson Dr. Sharon Gershony.
The Rabbinical Association of Vancouver also expressed solidarity with Schara Tzedeck, stating, “We are one Jewish community. We are all a family with one heart. An attack on one of us is an attack on all of us. The last 7 months have been the most difficult time for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. There has never been a more important time for us to remain strong and unified.”
Political and social polarization contribute to the rise in hate crimes, and politicians must recognize that a country losing its national culture and kindness is jeopardizing its future. If officials resort to populist politics to sweep problems under the carpet instead of upholding the law, we must all brace for the worse times that lie ahead.