Montreal – May 5, 2022 – Federation CJA and the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) - Quebec are expressing strong condemnation following an act of violence that was perpetrated downtown against a member of the Jewish community following a peaceful celebration of thousands of supporters of the State of Israel.

"The security of our community is our highest priority," said Yair Szlak, CEO of Federation CJA. "We are appalled and outraged to openly witness an act of hatred and violence on the streets of Montreal, targeting a member of our Jewish community. Jewish Montrealers and supporters of the only democracy in the Middle East must be free to celebrate in peace and safety."

Federation CJA and CIJA-Quebec are praising Montreal Police for their professionalism in providing ample security during the Israel Day Rally.

"We live in a free and democratic society where we expect to be safe in our own city," Szlak said. "We must never accept that antisemitic acts and acts of aggression, intimidation, and hatred are not acceptable in any way. There is absolutely no justification for violence of any sort here in Montreal or elsewhere. We must all stand together against hate. Those who are responsible for these acts of violence must be held to account."

"Despite the violent acts of aggression we witnessed on Thursday, we do not have any information indicating there is an elevated threat to our community, though, as always, we encourage community members to remain vigilant," Szlak added. "If you see something, say something."

"Just when Montrealers of good faith, members of the Jewish community gathered in celebration, it is upsetting that individuals would choose to engage in an act of aggression.  Our message is loud and clear. Acts of hate, antisemitism and violence have no place in our streets," added Eta Yudin, Vice President of CIJA – Quebec.

About Federation CJA

For over one hundred years, Federation CJA has been at the heart of the organized Jewish community in Montreal. In partnership with a vast network of agencies and organizations locally, nationally, and internationally, Federation CJA builds and sustains this community by providing leadership and by supporting the delivery of services and programs to care for the vulnerable and those in need, to ensure a bright Jewish future, to represent communal interests, and to positively affect issues in the wider society.

Media Contact:

Glenn J. Nashen
Director, Media Relations and Crisis Communications | Directeur, Relations avec les médias et communication de crise
Strategic Marketing and Communications | Marketing Stratégique et communications
FEDERATION CJA
1 Carré Cummings Square | 5151 Chemin de la Côte Ste-Catherine Road
Montréal, Québec  H3W 1M6
[email protected]