Police forces across the GTA say residents can expect an increased presence in and around synagogues and community centres in the aftermath of the terrorist attack against Jewish citizens at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia on Sunday.
“Throughout Hanukkah, you can expect an increased police presence in the Jewish community,” Toronto police said in a social media post. “This is a proactive measure to ensure the safety and security of the community.”
Police in York Region echoed those comments, saying they are in constant contact with federal and provincial partners to actively identify any potential threats.
“We understand the incidents of hate crime occurring outside our jurisdiction have been unsettling; we will continue to monitor and respond to any potential threats,” they said. “(We) will not tolerate any form of hate crime or the threat of violence against anyone. All reports of hate crime or hate/bias incidents will be investigated thoroughly.”
Peel Regional Police say they acknowledge the concern the Australia attack may have in local communities, adding that every person deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported. “No exceptions.”
“At this time, there are no known related threats, but we remain vigilant and are monitoring the situation closely.”
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs says it is in continuous contact with the federal government and law enforcement officials at the provincial and municipal levels to ensure steps are being taken to keep their communities safe.
“From the United Kingdom to the United States and now Australia, we have seen the deadly consequences of calls to ‘globalize the Intifada’ and the rise of violent antisemitic extremism. Canada is not immune. Canadians must wake up to this reality – we need urgent action from governments and law enforcement to keep all of us safe,” CIJA CEO Noah Shack said in a statement Sunday morning.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said the city stands with the Jewish community, especially as they prepare to celebrate the festival of Hanukkah.
“To Toronto’s Jewish community: I know the fear you feel is real, while celebrating your faith, gathering with loved ones or simply being visible. You deserve to live freely, openly and safely in our city. We condemn antisemitism in the strongest possible terms and must confront it wherever it exists,” Chow said in a statement.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed similar solidarity with the Jewish community.
“As we come together in support of our Jewish friends and neighbours to grieve this terrible attack, we must all stand with our Jewish community against hate and antisemitism wherever it is found,” said Ford. “I am praying for the victims and their loved ones, and that all those responsible for this attack are swiftly brought to justice.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney joined the chorus of international leaders in condemning the attack.
“Canada stands with the people of Australia and Jewish people everywhere in sorrow, and determination never to bow to terrorism, violence, hatred and intimidation,” said Carney.
“Hanukkah is a time of light amidst the darkness, and a remembrance of the resilience of the Jewish people. May we all support and strengthen that resilience to protect our Jewish communities and to ensure more fundamentally that all people can thrive in every aspect of our society.”
