Jewish Community in Canada Asks for More Security Due to Hate Incidents

There have been more hate incidents against Jewish people in Canada. Because of this, the Jewish community is asking for more security, including armed guards at their places and events. This is to help keep everyone safe from hate crimes.
By Newsroom | Canada, Social Issues |

Recent events have prompted a heightened focus on security within Canada's Jewish community. Reports indicate a noticeable increase in antisemitic incidents, leading to a demand for enhanced protective measures, including the presence of armed security at Jewish institutions and events. This situation highlights a growing concern for safety and the perceived need for more robust defenses against hate-motivated acts.

Members of Jewish community in Canada push for armed security amid rising antisemitism - 1

Summary of Sources:

  • CBC News (Aug 25, 2024): Documents bomb threats to Jewish institutions and accounts from individuals feeling unsafe and altering daily behaviors due to rising antisemitism.

  • TheJ.ca (May 30, 2025): Details an arson attack on a Vancouver synagogue, escalating security needs, and the immense financial and emotional toll on the Jewish community.

  • Canada.ca (Mar 6, 2025): Outlines government initiatives to combat antisemitism, including a national forum, definition of antisemitic statements, and police training.

  • Global News (Dec 15, 2025): Reports on a security assessment acknowledging the "realistic possibility" of attacks on Jewish holiday events, despite no current credible threats, and notes previous disruptions of alleged extremist plots.

  • CIJA (Sep 24, 2024): Announces the Canada Community Security Program (CCSP) to help vulnerable communities protect institutions, welcoming increased funding for security personnel.

  • Times of Israel (Nov 17, 2025): States that antisemitism was rising to record levels even before October 7, with many attributing the surge to a small group of extremists rather than a fundamental societal shift.

  • The Globe and Mail (Oct 6, 2025): Reports on a major Jewish organization urging the federal government to allocate millions more for synagogue security, citing incidents like a stabbing and desecration of synagogues.

  • TheJ.ca (Mar 9, 2025): Highlights the emergence of grassroots security groups, like Shomrim Manitoba, to address the urgent need for localized safety measures and community vigilance.

Escalating Threats and Community Concerns

In the past year, members of the Jewish community in Canada have reported an alarming increase in antisemitic incidents. This surge has manifested in various forms, including vandalism of Jewish institutions, bomb threats directed at synagogues, and physical assaults. Such occurrences have instilled a sense of unease and vulnerability, prompting many to reconsider their public presence and the security of communal spaces.

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  • Bomb threats were sent to dozens of synagogues and other Jewish institutions in Canada, causing distress among community members.

  • Individuals expressed feeling unsafe in their own communities and described experiencing antisemitism at levels not previously encountered.

  • The arson attack on a Vancouver synagogue serves as a stark reminder of the potential for direct violence.

  • There are accounts of Jewish-run schools and businesses being targeted, alongside the desecration of synagogues.

Official Responses and Security Initiatives

In response to the growing concerns, both governmental bodies and Jewish organizations have initiated various measures. The Canadian government has convened forums to address antisemitism and has introduced programs aimed at enhancing community safety. Simultaneously, Jewish communal organizations are actively seeking and implementing stronger security protocols.

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  • The Government of Canada hosted a National Forum on Combatting Antisemitism, affirming a commitment to address hate crimes targeting the Jewish community.

  • Efforts are underway to improve data collection on hate crimes through collaboration with Statistics Canada.

  • The Canada Community Security Program (CCSP) has been established to expand protection for vulnerable institutions.

  • The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) advocates for improved security measures and ensures provincial programs coordinate with the CCSP.

  • A major Jewish organization has called for increased federal funding for synagogue security, potentially amounting to millions of dollars.

Emergence of Grassroots Security Efforts

Beyond official programs, grassroots security initiatives have also emerged to meet the immediate need for protection. These community-led efforts focus on self-protection, vigilance, and real-time coordination with law enforcement, demonstrating a proactive approach to counter escalating antisemitic incidents.

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  • Grassroots security groups have formed in response to an urgent need for localized safety measures.

  • Organizations like Shomrim Manitoba provide security training and coordinate with police.

  • These groups draw inspiration from international security models and emphasize community education on self-protection.

  • The Jewish Security Network acts as a hub connecting various local security efforts across Canada.

Perceptions of Antisemitism

While the rise in antisemitism is widely acknowledged, perspectives differ on its root causes and scope. Some attribute the increase to a small group of extremists, suggesting that fundamental Canadian values remain largely unchanged. Others view the trend as more pervasive, indicating a societal shift that demands greater attention.

  • Antisemitism was reportedly increasing to record levels even before recent major geopolitical events.

  • Some community members believe the rise is driven by a small group of extremists, rather than a fundamental change in Canadian society.

  • The feeling of needing to censor views on Israel due to potential backlash is a noted concern.

Expert Analysis

"This disturbing and intimidating behaviour has left our community reeling, forced to confront a level of antisemitism not seen since the Holocaust." - Shimon Koffler Fogel, President and CEO, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA)

"Antisemitism and hate are contrary to Canadian values. That’s why Jews have flourished here until now." - Noah Shack, CEO of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA)

Conclusion

The Jewish community in Canada is actively grappling with a documented increase in antisemitic incidents, leading to significant calls for enhanced security. Reports detail bomb threats, vandalism, arson, and even physical assaults targeting individuals and institutions. In response, the Canadian government has launched anti-hate initiatives and security programs, while Jewish organizations are advocating for greater funding and implementing their own security networks. Grassroots efforts are also emerging to provide immediate, localized protection. The situation underscores a profound concern for safety and a perceived necessity for more robust defenses, even as discussions continue regarding the nature and origins of this rising tide of antisemitism.

Sources:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is the Jewish community in Canada asking for more security?
They are asking for more security because there has been an increase in hate crimes and incidents against Jewish people and places.
Q: What kind of security are they asking for?
They are asking for better security measures, including the possibility of armed guards at Jewish institutions and events.
Q: What is the government doing about this?
The government is working on plans to fight antisemitism and has started programs to help protect Jewish institutions.
Q: Are there groups helping with security?
Yes, community groups are also forming to help protect Jewish people and places in their local areas.