In recent years, Canada has seen a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents, including attacks on synagogues and other Jewish institutions. This uptick has been especially pronounced following major events in the Middle East, such as the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, which has deepened divisions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
National overview of antisemitic incidents
In Montreal, Congregation Beth Tikvah was the target of a suspected arson attack on Dec. 18, 2024 — the second such incident in just over a year since the Hamas attack. The synagogue’s front window was smashed, and a suspicious device was found inside. Across the street, a Federation CJA office was also vandalized, including damage to windows.
Toronto has likewise witnessed a surge in antisemitic violence, though it doesn’t always receive widespread media attention. A Jewish elementary school was shot at three times, and several synagogues have been vandalized or threatened in recent years. One man was convicted of threatening to bomb all of Toronto’s synagogues and “kill as many Jews as possible.” Another individual was charged with hate crimes after setting fire to signs at four synagogues and damaging the window of a fifth between April 2024 and Jan. 2025.
Winnipeg’s experience
Winnipeg has not been immune to this disturbing trend. Between Sept. 28 and Dec. 31, 2024, the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) received multiple reports of antisemitic graffiti defacing infrastructure in the Charleswood neighborhood. Swastikas and acronyms linked to hate groups were prominently displayed, sparking outrage among residents.
On Jan. 12, 2025, 19-year-old Nevin Thunder Young was arrested and charged with 26 counts of mischief under $5,000. Later, on March 18, 2025, Young faced additional terrorism-related charges, including participation in the activity of a terrorist group and facilitating terrorist activity.
The escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has had ripple effects in Canada, contributing to increased antisemitic incidents. Following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, antisemitic incidents in Canada surged by 670%. Although Canadian Jews represent just 1.4% of the population, they accounted for 70% of religion-based hate crime victims during this period.
National and community responses
In response, Canadian authorities have initiated measures to combat the rise in antisemitism. The federal government announced the creation of a national forum on combating antisemitism, aimed at coordinating efforts and implementing strategies to safeguard Jewish communities.
In Winnipeg, the Jewish community — alongside allies from various backgrounds — continues to demonstrate resilience and solidarity. Community leaders emphasize the importance of education, dialogue, and proactive measures to counter hate and foster understanding across diverse populations.
Henry Topas, a cantor and Federation CJA’s director for Canada’s Atlantic region, acknowledged the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with incidents that are politically and culturally charged.
“It’s not as simple as a lot of people think — like they’re just not enforcing the law,” Topas told the Sun . “They’ve gone to court over cases that you’d expect would be slam dunks. For example, tearing up Hamas flags — Hamas being a recognized terrorist organization. Sure, you can carry the flag all day long, but the moment you hit someone with it, then it becomes criminal. That’s how the courts have ruled. And we’re working very hard to get those kinds of things changed.”
A call for collective action
The rise in antisemitic incidents across Canada — including in Winnipeg — underscores the urgent need for collective action to combat hate and ensure the safety of all communities. Addressing the root causes of these divisions, particularly those tied to international conflicts, will require a concerted effort from government agencies, community organizations, and individuals committed to upholding the values of inclusivity and mutual respect — even with those we may disagree with.
Originally published by the Winnipeg Sun.