Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies

FSWC is thrilled to be in BC this week delivering antisemitism and Holocaust education and training to law enforcement personnel and educators. Yesterday, our team delivered a full-day program to some 50 BC RCMP | GRC en CB members, who learned about the history of the Holocaust and the role of law enforcement, historical and contemporary antisemitism and ways to be an ally against it, hate crimes and other challenges faced by the Jewish community, and much more. Holocaust survivor Andy Réti also joined us to share his powerful testimony and this important message: “You cannot convince all the people, but if you just make a difference to at least one or a few, then we have accomplished something.”

🚨 We're hiring! 🚨 FSWC is looking for an Advocacy Intern (3-month internship) to join our team in Toronto in our fight against antisemitism and hate. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Jewish community advocacy and human rights. This is a paid opportunity. For more info, go to fswc.ca/jobs.

Yesterday marked six years since 11 innocent lives were brutally taken in the attack on the Tree of Life Synagogue. As we honour their memories, we remain steadfast in our commitment to stand against antisemitism and hatred and work toward a world rooted in understanding, compassion and unity.    May their memories forever be a blessing.🕯️

As Jewish communities around the world mark the conclusion of Sukkot with Shemini Atzeret, we take time to reflect on the spiritual connections we’ve strengthened during this sacred period. As the day transitions into Simchat Torah tomorrow, we will celebrate the completion of the annual Torah reading cycle, embracing the joy of renewal and continuity in Jewish tradition. Wishing everyone a meaningful and joyous holiday. Chag sameach!

FSWC, Allied Voices for Israel, The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs , Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver, StandWithUs Canada and Hillel BC Society are calling on The University of British Columbia President Benoit-Antoine Bacon and the administration to take five actions immediately to address the rising tide of hate, intimidation and harassment that the Jewish community has been facing at the university.

Join us on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 7:30 PM EDT for the next segment of Book Talk, which will feature a conversation between Holocaust survivor Karmela Waldman, her son Joel and FSWC's Senior Writer Robert Sarner.    It will focus largely on Joel’s recently published non-fiction book about his mother titled Surviving the Survivor: A Brutally Honest Conversation about Life (& Death) with My Mom: A Holocaust Survivor, Therapist and My Podcast Co-Host and their success as co-hosts of a popular true-crime podcast, Surviving the Survivor.   Go to fswc.ca/events to register today!   This online event is free to attend.

Chag Sukkot Sameach! 🌿🍋   Sukkot is a joyful Jewish holiday that celebrates the harvest and commemorates the 40 years the Israelites spent in the desert. During this time, we build and dwell in a sukkah, a temporary structure, symbolizing faith, protection and the blessings of nature.   May your holiday be filled with peace and togetherness. Wishing everyone a meaningful and joyful Sukkot!

FSWC commends the Canadian government for designating Samidoun as a terrorist entity. Samidoun’s promotion of violent antisemitism, including the October 7 atrocities, has created jeopardy for Jews in Canada and we're relieved they'll no longer enjoy impunity for their role in inciting hate. Read our statement: https://lnkd.in/gXt8RGkR

We are deeply disturbed that Bais Chaya Mushka, a Jewish girls' school in Toronto, was hit with gunfire overnight, as the Jewish community marked Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. No one was injured, but a window was broken in this latest attack which comes amid a continuing surge in antisemitism in Toronto and elsewhere in Canada. Toronto Police Service is investigating.

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. It is a time for reflection, fasting and seeking forgiveness. As the Jewish communities around the world come together to observe this sacred day, may we all find peace and strength. Wishing everyone a meaningful and easy fast. G’mar Chatima Tova.