The Embassy of Israel in Canada, led by Ambassador Iddo Moed, has issued a powerful call to action: ban the public display of the Nazi “hooked cross” (Hakenkreuz) and all Nazi iconography in Canada. This comes as antisemitism rates reach alarming levels nationwide, with the hooked cross, a symbol of genocide and terror, appearing more frequently in public spaces and protests.
“The Nazi hooked cross (Hakenkreuz) is a symbol of genocide and terror, there’s no place for it in Canada,” the Embassy stated, echoing B’nai Brith Canada’s campaign and petition, which has already garnered support from over 10,000 Canadians and endorsements from numerous governments and community organizations. The Embassy’s statement underscores that the time for “decisive and concrete action is long overdue,” as hate incidents and displays of Nazi symbols have become more brazen and widespread.
Municipalities across the country are responding. Ottawa City Council recently passed a unanimous motion supporting a nationwide ban on Nazi symbols, joining other regions such as Saskatchewan and Durham in backing B’nai Brith’s call for federal legislation. The motion, introduced by Councillor Laine Johnson and seconded by Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, reflects the urgency felt in communities with large Jewish populations and a recent spike in antisemitic incidents.
The campaign is also supported by diverse faith groups, including Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain organizations, who emphasize the need to distinguish the Nazi Hakenkreuz from the ancient, peaceful swastika used in their traditions. Their support highlights the broad consensus that Nazi symbols are uniquely associated with hate, violence, and the systematic atrocities of the Holocaust.
Eighteen countries have already enacted bans on the public display of Nazi iconography. Advocates argue that Canada must follow suit to uphold its core values of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and to ensure that every Canadian is protected from hate and intimidation.
Ambassador Moed and the Embassy of Israel expressed gratitude for the thousands of Canadians, governments, and organizations supporting this initiative. “We are proud to join B’nai Brith Canada and our allies in the fight against antisemitism and extremism,” the Embassy declared, urging Parliament to act swiftly.
As the movement gains momentum, the message from Canada’s Jewish community, its allies, and the Israeli Embassy is clear: symbols of hate and genocide have no place in a country committed to peace, security, and equality for all.