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A NEW REALITY
October 7th has challenged our community in a big way. As Jews, we have never felt more under siege. Our sense of belonging – and place in Canada – feels different. We can no longer hide from rampant antisemitism. On our campuses, on the streets, and online. We can’t ignore the normalization of what’s not normal.
Since the onset of this crisis, Federation CJA has been at the forefront. Fully engaged in the battle of our generation. Like never before. Fighting back and securing our Jewish community in Montreal.
At the same time, we continue to invest in Jewish life, as we have for over a century – taking care of Holocaust survivors. Feeding the hungry. Sending children to Jewish day school and summer camps. Supporting our fellow Jews in Israel.
No other organization can take a multi-faceted approach like we can. This is our business, and we are not backing down. Because maintaining a strong, vibrant and resilient Jewish future in Montreal is possible. But the only way we can achieve this is with fresh thinking. Decisive action. And a community ready to go ALL IN.
+109%
ANTISEMITIC INCIDENTS HAVE MORE THAN DOUBLED IN THE PAST YEAR. ACCORDING TO STATISTICS CANADA, POLICE-REPORTED HATE-CRIME DATA SHOWS JEWS ARE TARGETS IN 70% OF RELIGIOUSLY MOTIVATED HATE CRIMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
ANTISEMITIC INCIDENTS HAVE MORE THAN DOUBLED IN THE PAST YEAR. ACCORDING TO STATISTICS CANADA, POLICE-REPORTED HATE-CRIME DATA SHOWS JEWS ARE TARGETS IN 70% OF RELIGIOUSLY MOTIVATED HATE CRIMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
118
ANTISEMITIC INCIDENTS, INCLUDING ABUSE OF PODIUM, WERE REPORTED VIA FEDERATION CJA’S ONLINE REPORTING SYSTEM EMPOWERING STUDENTS ON CAMPUS TO TAKE ACTION AND FEEL SAFER.
ANTISEMITIC INCIDENTS, INCLUDING ABUSE OF PODIUM, WERE REPORTED VIA FEDERATION CJA’S ONLINE REPORTING SYSTEM EMPOWERING STUDENTS ON CAMPUS TO TAKE ACTION AND FEEL SAFER.
126
NEW COMMUNITY SECURITY NETWORK RECRUITS HAVE BEEN TRAINED GROWING OUR VOLUNTEER BASE TO 239 VOLUNTEERS WHO ARE MAKING OUR JEWISH INSTITUTIONS MORE SECURE.
NEW COMMUNITY SECURITY NETWORK RECRUITS HAVE BEEN TRAINED GROWING OUR VOLUNTEER BASE TO 239 VOLUNTEERS WHO ARE MAKING OUR JEWISH INSTITUTIONS MORE SECURE.
In the wake of the October 7, antisemitism — already on the rise in Canada — has been fully unleashed on our campuses, on the streets, and online. And we’re taking action.
WE’RE SECURING. WE’RE ADVOCATING. AND SPEAKING OUT.
Our Community Security Network (CSN) – one of the most advanced in North America – has been working with law enforcement at all levels to ensure community safety. Through our advocacy partner, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), we are engaging in dialogue with leaders in government, academia, media and other religious communities. To shine a light on antisemitism. And to safeguard our fundamental rights as Canadians. Looking ahead, our security, legal and advocacy costs will continue to soar.
WE’RE FOCUSED ON THE NEEDS OF OUR STUDENTS.
We are investing in educational programs in public schools to fight misinformation and Jewish hate. On our campuses, we’re building the fortitude and resilience of our students. Informing, empowering and supporting them as they fight back against abuse of podium, intimidation and hate from masked protestors. Words matter, facts matter, and myths about Jews need to be debunked.
We need you more than ever. Because we believe that each of us should feel confident to live openly Jewish lives, and proudly identify as Jews—without fear. And no other organization can take a multi-faceted approach like we can.
4,000+
HOUSEHOLDS RECEIVED FOOD SECURITY SUPPORT FOR PASSOVER AND THE HIGH HOLIDAYS LAST YEAR
HOUSEHOLDS RECEIVED FOOD SECURITY SUPPORT FOR PASSOVER AND THE HIGH HOLIDAYS LAST YEAR
2,239
COMMUNITY MEMBERS RECEIVED TIMELY MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELLING AND CRITICAL SUPPORT
COMMUNITY MEMBERS RECEIVED TIMELY MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELLING AND CRITICAL SUPPORT
$529K
ALLOCATED TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING IMPROVED THE FINANCIAL STABILITY OF 724 FAMILIES
ALLOCATED TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING IMPROVED THE FINANCIAL STABILITY OF 724 FAMILIES
655
HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS REQUIRE SUPPORT TO MEET THEIR BASIC NEEDS AND ACCESS QUALITY OF LIFE EXTRAS
HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS REQUIRE SUPPORT TO MEET THEIR BASIC NEEDS AND ACCESS QUALITY OF LIFE EXTRAS
October 7th has challenged our community in a big way. What hasn’t changed: 20% of Montreal Jews can’t afford to meet their basic needs. Soaring rent and food costs mean it’s a daily struggle for those who were already vulnerable to meet both their fundamental human and Jewish needs. Seniors on fixed incomes. Holocaust survivors. Single-parent families. Those living with a disability, dealing with abuse, addiction, or mental illness. No one should have to choose between paying rent, eating a meal, or filling a prescription.
With your help, we are investing in initiatives that tackle poverty and social exclusion. Together, we fund partners and programs that put food on the table and provide basic essentials to those in crisis. The Rental Assistance Program makes safe, stable housing more affordable. After school programs for youth from at-risk families. Job and employment support for the neurodivergent or those with disabilities. Ensure those with mental illness don’t feel alone. And provide the help young Jewish adults need as they transition out of the youth protection system.
We believe the cycle of poverty can be broken—with your help.
50%
OF FAMILIES RECEIVING TUITION SUPPORT SAY IT INFLUENCED THEIR DECISION TO KEEP THEIR CHILDREN IN JEWISH DAY SCHOOL.
OF FAMILIES RECEIVING TUITION SUPPORT SAY IT INFLUENCED THEIR DECISION TO KEEP THEIR CHILDREN IN JEWISH DAY SCHOOL.
884
TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS EMBARKED ON IMMERSIVE ISRAEL EXPERIENCES LAST YEAR, STRENGTHENING THEIR CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY
TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS EMBARKED ON IMMERSIVE ISRAEL EXPERIENCES LAST YEAR, STRENGTHENING THEIR CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY
7 OUT OF 10
YOUNG JEWISH LEADERS ATTENDED JEWISH SUMMER CAMP
YOUNG JEWISH LEADERS ATTENDED JEWISH SUMMER CAMP
3,500
CHILDREN RECEIVE A PJ LIBRARY OR PJ MY WAY BOOK EACH MONTH, BUILDING A LOVE FOR READING AND JEWISH CULTURE
CHILDREN RECEIVE A PJ LIBRARY OR PJ MY WAY BOOK EACH MONTH, BUILDING A LOVE FOR READING AND JEWISH CULTURE
In the context of today’s rising antisemitism on our campuses and online, it is important more than ever to foster Jewish pride. Our children need to learn to love Israel, before they are bombarded by the politics of anti- Zionism. Especially our teens. Jewish day schools and overnight summer camps are the greatest investments we make when it comes to Jewish identity. But for many low- and middle-income families, experiences like these are simply out of reach.
We’re making Jewish school tuition and overnight summer camps more affordable for more families. And ensuring immersive experiences, such as the March of the Living and GOTEENISRAEL, are more accessible. But we aren’t stopping there. We’re also investing in developing Jewish leaders of tomorrow through Hillel, Lev Fellow events and Israel advocacy retreats. And directly engaging with young families thanks to PJ Library. Because our community’s future depends on the transformative power of these enriching Jewish experiences, today, tomorrow and beyond.
$26M+
RAISED. OVER $15M ALLOCATED TO 59 ORGANIZATIONS DELIVERING LIFELINE SERVICES, MENTAL HEALTH AND TRAUMA RELIEF, COMMUNITY RECOVERY & RESCUE
RAISED. OVER $15M ALLOCATED TO 59 ORGANIZATIONS DELIVERING LIFELINE SERVICES, MENTAL HEALTH AND TRAUMA RELIEF, COMMUNITY RECOVERY & RESCUE
$445K
TO PROVIDE DIRECT FINANCIAL AID AND SUPPORT TO FAMILIES OF HOSTAGES AND PARTNERS OF FALLEN SOLDIERS
TO PROVIDE DIRECT FINANCIAL AID AND SUPPORT TO FAMILIES OF HOSTAGES AND PARTNERS OF FALLEN SOLDIERS
$384K
FOR 1 PERMANENT AND 10 MOBILE BOMB SHELTERS TO PROTECT RESIDENTS UNDER FIRE IN ISRAEL’S SOUTHERN REGION
FOR 1 PERMANENT AND 10 MOBILE BOMB SHELTERS TO PROTECT RESIDENTS UNDER FIRE IN ISRAEL’S SOUTHERN REGION
3,000
INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED TRAUMA AND EMOTIONAL FIRST AID THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS
INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED TRAUMA AND EMOTIONAL FIRST AID THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS
We remain steadfast in our unwavering support for the state of Israel. During these times of conflict. And beyond.
Within hours of the attack on October 7th, we mobilized this community. And coordinated with our local, national and international partners. Our goal was to address the most urgent needs. To date, over $12.6M has been allocated to support lifeline, mental health, and trauma relief services to those in desperate need.
We have also committed $2.4M to support community recovery efforts. We are supporting the needs of those who have been relocated to Be’er Sheva. From PTSD care to the deployment of mobile kitchens. Keeping close-knit communities united. Our solidarity missions and Birthright trips to Israel have continued as we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Israelis and bear witness to the enduring strength and perseverance of the Jewish people.
We are in it for the long haul.
Since October 7th, our investments in security, advocacy and legal action have skyrocketed. We had no choice but to take decisive action. At the same time, we have continued to invest in Jewish life, as we have for over a century – taking care of Holocaust survivors. Feeding the hungry. Sending children to Jewish day school and summer camps. We can’t change the world. But together, we CAN impact our community. For the better.
THAT’S WHY THIS YEAR, WE ARE NOT ONLY ASKING YOU TO SUPPORT OUR ANNUAL CAMPAIGN, WE ARE ALSO ASKING YOU TO SUPPORT OUR ANTISEMITISM SECURITY CAMPAIGN.
OVER THE NEXT TEN YEARS, OUR VISION IS TO BE THE LEADING FORCE, ACROSS FIVE EMERGING FRONTS:
SECURITY
WE ARE AHEAD OF THE CURVE
We made a commitment to this community in 2018 and we have delivered on our promise: Our Community Security Network is one of the most advanced in North America. Because we learned from best practices of Jewish communities in Europe, today, we set the standard. And we’re only just beginning.
NEXT STEPS
To remain at the forefront in matters of security, we must:
- Support the soaring annual security costs.
- Expand our investment in infrastructure and operational capabilities.
- Triple the number of volunteers serving in our Community Security Network and the HR required to manage them.
ON CAMPUS
WE WERE THERE, FROM THE GET-GO
Universities are the bedrock of our collective future. But the current climate on our campuses is a cesspool of relentless antisemitism and Jewish hate. Amidst university inaction, Federation CJA mobilized our own advocacy professionals to inform, empower, and support Jewish students. We increased funding to fight back against abuse of podium, intimidation and hate from masked protestors. And worked with Jewish students and faculty to counter misinformation and provide Israel advocacy training. We are present, supportive and empowering students on campus.
NEXT STEPS
To enhance student and faculty support, we must:
- Invest in increased Israel advocacy training to build intellectual resilience.
- Strengthen our HR capacity on each Montreal campus by hiring additional professional staff, trained to act as a support system for our front-line student and faculty activists.
- Engage with CEGEP and university administrations to address and remedy the toxic environment.
- Fortify student resilience.
ADVOCACY & PR
AMPLIFYING PRO-JEWISH VOICES
Right now, we are doubling down on our commitment to advocacy. We urgently need to ensure that CIJA has the bandwidth to ramp up its efforts at the local, provincial and federal levels.
NEXT STEPS
We need to raise a common voice to:
- Safeguard our rights as Canadian citizens by advancing public policies that fight antisemitism and ensure the security of our community and institutions.
- Forge strategic alliances with leaders in government, academia, media, and other religious communities. Improve public relations. And address media bias in Quebec.
- Mobilize and educate our allies to denounce anti-Jewish hate. And influence those who remain undecided.
- Develop, test and amplify PR efforts to shine a light on the antisemitism overwhelming our society. And align the Jewish community with like-minded members of society on issues of liberal democracy and shared values.
THE RULE OF LAW
A VITAL TOOL IN OUR ARSENAL
Aggressive protesters are targeting our synagogues, schools and community centres. As universities shirk their duty to protect Jewish students and police stand idly by, Federation CJA is taking the lead. We’ve invested in court-ordered injunctions that now protect over 30 community buildings. Assisted Jewish professionals, teachers and students in their efforts to preserve their rights as everyday citizens. At schools and at work. And we will continue to actively pursue every and all legal avenue to defend our community.
NEXT STEPS
We’re maintaining sustained legal pressure, as we continue to:
- Safeguard our community’s interests and uphold our rights.
- Advocate for the application of the rule of law, on campuses and on our streets.
- Liaise with all levels of law enforcement to ensure the security of our community and institutions.
BUILDING RESILIENCE
SECURING A VIBRANT JEWISH FUTURE
Together. United. Resilient and Strong. In a world keen on drowning out our voices, Federation CJA has the responsibility to build the resilience and fortitude our community needs to face the post-October 7th world. And to reimagine what it means to be Jewish in the diaspora.
NEXT STEPS
To ensure that this community is prepared for the challenges that lie ahead, we must: :
- Invest in increased Israel advocacy training to build intellectual resilience.
- Strengthen our HR capacity on each Montreal campus by hiring additional professional staff, trained to act as a support system for our front-line student and faculty activists.
- Engage with CEGEP and university administrations to address and remedy the toxic environment.
- Fortify student resilience.
