09/22/2026
Standing Together Against Antisemitism!
Yesterday, Sunday, September 20, gunfire erupted outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, as members of the Jewish community gathered for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism.
No one should ever have to worry about their safety simply because they are gathering with their community, attending a place of worship, or practicing their faith.
As Canadians, we must stand together against all forms of hate and violence, and we must be equally clear that antisemitism has no place in Canada. It cannot be ignored, normalized or tolerated.
As both a Canadian and a Jew, this hits close to home. Jewish Canadians—and Jews anywhere in the world—have the right to live their lives openly, peacefully and without fear. We should never accept a reality where someone has to think twice about their safety before walking into a synagogue.
Antisemitism must be confronted wherever it appears—in our communities, on our streets, online, and in our institutions. We cannot allow hatred toward Jewish people to become normalized or accepted as part of Canadian life. Jewish Canadians should not have to hide who they are, avoid displaying their identity, or fear attending synagogue because of threats or acts of violence.
There have been far too many incidents of antisemitism targeting Jewish Canadians and Jewish institutions, and every one of them should concern all Canadians. We must continue to speak out against antisemitism, support Jewish communities, strengthen measures to prevent antisemitic violence and ensure that criminal acts are investigated properly and those responsible are held accountable under the law.
This is not the responsibility of one level of government or one community. Federal, provincial and municipal governments, law enforcement, community organizations and Canadians from every background all have a role to play in confronting antisemitism and keeping Jewish Canadians safe.
I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Const. Jeff Smith of the Belleville Police Service, who was seriously injured while responding to the incident and working to protect the community.
Wishing Const. Smith a speedy and full recovery, and hoping he will soon be back home with his family and on the road to good health.
And to police officers, first responders and emergency personnel across Canada who put themselves at risk every day to protect others: thank you for your service, your courage and your sacrifice.
Canada is at its best when we stand together—not only when it is easy, but especially when one of our communities is targeted or afraid.
We must continue to stand together against antisemitism, stand with our Jewish neighbours, and stand for a Canada where everyone can live safely, openly and without fear. 🇨🇦✡️🇨🇦
