October 11, 2023
As you may very well be aware, several social media posts have called for violent resistance in Jewish communities worldwide on Friday, October 13, 2023. We are also aware that this could be part of the disinformation campaign of Hamas. At this time, we do not have any specific information that these threats are real. We have alerted law enforcement at the highest levels of all social media posts that threaten the Jewish community. They have been very supportive and have increased patrols around our institutions, as well as had a large presence at our vigils and gatherings. They will continue to do so with an eye to Friday.
Although in the past, calls by terrorist organizations for global jihad have not resulted in physical attacks against Canada’s Jewish community, we must not become lax. While we don’t have any specific intelligence, vigilance is our number one ally. We are asking all Jewish community members to be extra vigilant on Friday, not only in Jewish institutions but in public areas such as malls, kosher bakeries, etc., and to continue to do so throughout Shabbat. This is out of an abundance of caution to ensure that wherever we go as a Jewish community, we keep an awareness of our surroundings.
Please remember, if you see something, say something!Call 911 and report what you have witnessed. After that, please call Federation CJA’s Emergency HOTLINE: 514-343-4343.
Out of an abundance of precaution, we have also increased security presence at CPEs, Jewish schools and synagogues on Friday, and our CSN Volunteers will be out with increased shifts on Friday and over the weekend. We owe CSN Volunteers an extra debt of gratitude!
Unfortunately, we are aware that social media posts have increased anxiety and concern. That is part of the tactics and psychological warfare deployed by Hamas to shake the support for Israel as she defends herself after the horrific attack by Hamas – the massacre of over 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, over 3,000 injured and over 150 kidnapped being held in Gaza.
Let’s remember that security is ALL OF OUR RESPONSIBILITY. Please remain vigilant and calm, and again, remember, if you see something, say something.
We continue to pray and support our family in Israel as she prepares to conduct a war to protect her borders. Our support is being felt through your generosity and your deeds.
יהוה עז לעמו יתן יהוה יברך את עמו בשלום
Yair Szlak, LL.B
President and Chief Executive Officer,
Federation CJA
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