A troubling surge in antisemitism is gripping Canada, escalating into what Jewish groups describe as a years-long epidemic fueled by activist movements. As the federal government prepares to unveil its new budget, these organizations are urgently calling for decisive action to confront the rising tide of hatred and safeguard Canadian values.
B’nai Brith Canada is specifically urging lawmakers to utilize the upcoming Budget Implementation Act to amend existing legislation. Their goal is to prevent organizations designated as terrorist entities from maintaining legal corporate status within the country, a loophole currently exploited by groups like Samidoun.
Despite being officially listed as a terrorist entity in 2024, Samidoun continues to operate as a registered non-profit in Canada. This glaring contradiction has prompted calls for immediate correction, with advocates arguing the current budget presents a critical opportunity to close this dangerous gap in national security.
The government’s initial response was slow, only acting after public pressure mounted following a report in the Toronto Sun. Industry Minister Melanie Joly acknowledged the situation as “completely unacceptable,” stating that terrorist-linked organizations should not be permitted to exist as federally-registered entities.
Adding to the concern, Samidoun’s leader, Charlotte Kates, recently attended the funeral of a prominent Hezbollah figure in Beirut, openly denouncing Canada’s designation of her group as terrorist. Reports have since placed Kates back in Beirut, further highlighting the organization’s continued activity and defiance.
B’nai Brith’s annual audit revealed a dramatic spike in anti-Jewish hate incidents across Canada in 2024. This included regular rallies and intimidation tactics targeting Jewish communities, even in residential neighborhoods, often led by far-left and anti-Israel activists.
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) is also appealing to the government for increased funding for security programs, specifically the Canada Community Security Program. They emphasize the need to ensure all communities have the resources necessary to protect themselves from escalating threats.
According to CIJA’s CEO, Noah Shack, the Jewish community now requires “extraordinary security measures” simply to carry out everyday activities – attending school, religious services, or community events. This heightened state of alert is a direct consequence of the dramatic increase in hate and extremism since the October 7th attacks.
Shack stressed that the government’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of its citizens, and that increased support is vital to achieving this goal, not just for the Jewish community, but for all vulnerable groups facing similar challenges. The situation demands urgent attention and a robust response to protect Canadian society from the growing threat of hate-fueled violence.
