Rising antisemitism pushes Canadian Jews to weigh leaving as leaders promise action

Jewish Canadians have long contributed to the country's culture, economy and public institutions, yet a sharp rise in antisemitic hostility since the October 7 Israel-Hamas war is prompting many to contemplate leaving. Incidents ranging from fire-bombings of synagogues to street harassment have been reported in cities like Montreal, leading figures such as author Gad Saad to relocate to the United States, while Shopify president Harley Finkelstein says his family decided to remain and rebuild.

Non-Jewish alliances such as Upstanders Canada and Allies For A Strong Canada have joined senior business and political leaders in demanding tougher enforcement of hate-crime laws. An open letter in national newspapers called for zero-tolerance policies, and Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled an Advisory Council on Rights, Equality, and Inclusion, appointing controversial members like former Arab Federation head Omar Alghabra. Critics argue the council may be symbolic, as attacks on Jewish institutions persist, underscoring the need for decisive governmental action.