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As we approach the six-month mark since October 7th, our hearts remain heavy with the memory of those we lost and the pain that lingers, as well as hope for those who are still not yet home. We are committed to not just remembering but actively fostering a future of unity and resilience. This Sunday, April 7th, we will gather at the "Holding Hope" event, a solemn assembly to mark this significant moment. Among us will be the courageous mother of Alexandre Look, a young Montrealer whose life was tragically cut short that day. She will share her story, reminding us of the personal impacts of such a profound loss and the strength found in community support.
In these challenging times, our dedication to making a tangible difference continues. In just six months, thanks to you, our Montreal community members, Federation CJA, has initiated its fifth wave of funding to Israel—a testament to our unwavering solidarity and support. For a transparent breakdown of how these funds are being used, please click here.
Together, in memory and in hope, we move forward.
Yair Szlak
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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW
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Pierre Poilievre's Address at BIBA: A Commitment to Israel and Combatting Antisemitism
Conservative Party of Canada leader Pierre Poilievre delivered a powerful address at Congregation Beth Israel Beth Aaron (BIBA) on March 26. His unwavering support for Israel and steadfast commitment to combating antisemitism reflect moral clarity and principled leadership. Poilievre's stance resonated deeply, and we greatly appreciate his steadfast dedication to our shared values. For those who missed it, a recording of the speech is available.
We also thank our advocacy partner, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), BIBA, Rabbi Poupko, M.P. Pierre Paul-Hus, and Senator Leo Housakos for their leadership during this event. With CIJA stewardship, we look forward to more words of encouragement and support from all parties across our political spectrum.
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Empowering Growth: Federation CJA's Grant for Building Stronger Jewish Organizations
Unlock new growth opportunities for your organization with the Federation CJA and JCF's Organizational Capacity Building Grant. Dedicated to enriching the Montreal Jewish community, this grant provides critical resources to build your organization's internal capabilities, from modernizing technological tools to enhancing management strategies. Aimed at supporting community care, Jewish continuity, and communal interests, this initiative promises to nurture more effective and sustainable organizations. Applications are open until May 8, 2024—apply now to make a lasting impact.
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Federation CJA 360 Podcast New Episode Available
Dive into the latest insights on Jewish life and community challenges with Federation CJA's Podcast. In Episode 22, we're honoured to welcome Dr. Mijal Bitton, a Research Fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America and Rosh Kehilla of the Downtown Minyan in NYC, for an enlightening discussion on contemporary Jewish identity and community dynamics.
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STRONGER TOGETHER
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Highlights of Unity: Federation CJA's Community Events
Join us in celebrating moments of generosity, resilience, and collective action through a few recent, unforgettable events. Each one demonstrated the incredible spirit of our community, leaving an indelible mark on all who participated. Watch the recap reels to experience the inspiration and unity these events brought to our community.
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Federation CJA On Tour: What a journey it was for the incredible women who embarked on the Inaugural Women's Philanthropy Federation CJA Tour! These trailblazers ventured out to witness firsthand the impact that Federation CJA has on our community.
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Purim at the Port: A spectacular masquerade ball hosted by GenMTL Philanthropy that celebrated tradition, unity, and the joy of giving, marking a memorable night of philanthropic passion and communal spirit for our next generation of leaders.
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W.I.N. Evening with Caroline D’Amore: An inspiring evening with visionary entrepreneur Caroline D’Amore for our Women in Networks (W.I.N.), highlighting the power of kindness and the importance of making a positive impact within and beyond our community.
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"One Life" Film Pre-Screening: A special gathering of over 575 community members for the pre-screening of “One Life,” showcasing the incredible difference just one person can make and highlighting the significance of standing up for what's right.
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Heroes - First Testimony: An event filled with powerful narratives of survival and resilience, as October 7th survivors shared their stories, reminding us of the unbreakable spirit that persists through adversity and the unity that our community embodies.
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Inclusion in Action: WILT's Network for Disability Support in the West Island
Join the West Island Local Table (WILT) as they champion disability inclusion within the West Island communities. Spearheaded by professionals Jodi Toledano and Leah Dayan, WILT collaborates with key organizations to enhance support and resources for individuals with disabilities. Celebrating the empowering 36th Quebec Intellectual Disability Week with the theme “J’ai ma place! / I Belong!” WILT aims to foster an inclusive society that values the contributions of all its members. Discover more about their mission and watch their impactful video, shedding light on the importance of inclusion and the rich resources available to West Island families.
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Studying the Impact of Antisemitism on Campus
A pivotal study is underway to deeply understand the impact of the rise of campus antisemitism on Montreal university students. Spearheaded Dr. Barbara Perry and Marlene Grossman, this research seeks to gather crucial insights directly from students, aiming to tailor anti-hate policies effectively. This project if being supported by Maspik!, CIJA, Hillel Montreal and JNF Canada. Participation is essential; students are encouraged to contribute anonymously through a brief survey or an in-depth interview, guiding the development of supportive measures tailored to their needs. This effort underscores our commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive campus environment for all. If you are student and wish to complete the survey, please click the button below. To schedule an interview, email [email protected].
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Empowering Advocates: B’Yachad Fellowship's Final Day of Training and Inspiration at Hillel House
Last week marked the final B’Yachad Fellowship day at Hillel House — the Fellows learned how to navigate antisemitism from Jeff Bicher, hands-on Krav Maga and participated in a Federation CJA on Campus briefing and interactive discussion with Judy Kremer and Tomer Chazan.
Our B’Yachad Fellowship, a program of Federation CJA in partnership with Hillel Montreal, equipped Fellows with various advocacy skills to better respond to antisemitism, leaving them feeling more empowered and confident about advocating for Jewish students on campus.
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Unlock Your Potential with JCF Montreal Scholarships
Open the door to a world of opportunity with the Jewish Community Foundation of Montreal. Scholarship programs offer financial support across various study levels—from undergraduate degrees to specialized and postgraduate education. No matter your field of interest, be it social work, Holocaust studies, education, medicine, or beyond, our diverse scholarship funds are here to help you achieve your academic and professional goals. Explore the possibilities and take the first step toward your future today.
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Supernova Screening: A Night of Solidarity at Concordia
In an evening filled with emotion and community solidarity, students and members of the Jewish community gathered this week at Concordia for the Supernova Screening. It was a difficult yet essential experience, highlighting the atrocities of October 7th.
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IN THE NEWS
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Bronfmans' Milestone: Over $100 Million in Philanthropy with a Focus on Community
Claudine and Stephen Bronfman have significantly impacted philanthropy, channelling over $100 million into various causes, with a notable emphasis on supporting the Jewish community and Federation CJA's initiatives. Leveraging Claudine's marketing expertise and the Bronfman family's longstanding philanthropic legacy, they have fostered arts, environmental sustainability, and entrepreneurship. Their contributions highlight a profound commitment to enriching community life and embodying the values of generosity and innovation.
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Canadian Families of Hamas Victims and CIJA are Taking the Canadian Government to Court Over its Decision to Resume Funding for UNRWA
In a pivotal move, Canadian families affected by Hamas's devastating attacks and the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) are challenging the Canadian government's decision to resume funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). This legal action, initiated on April 4, 2024, argues that funding UNRWA, with its documented connections to Hamas, contravenes Canadian law, including anti-terrorism legislation. The plaintiffs, who have suffered the loss of family members to Hamas violence, alongside legal experts, assert that UNRWA's alignment with Hamas makes it an unsuitable channel for Canadian aid. This case highlights the complex intersection of humanitarian aid, legal accountability, and the imperative to uphold values and standards that align with Canadian principles and international human rights.
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An open letter to Canada’s political leaders – for the sake of the country’s future
Leaders across Canada have united in an open letter, urging immediate action against the growing incivility and hatred threatening our national harmony. Advocating for research, education, and law reinforcement, this bipartisan plea stresses the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and empathy to bridge divides. The message is clear: to safeguard our collective future, we must prioritize the values that hold us together as Canadians, fostering a more respectful and cohesive society.
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Voice for Truth: AMJQ's Call for Compassion and Truth in Israel-Gaza Discourse
In an unprecedented display of solidarity, more than 466 doctors from the Association des médecins juifs du Québec (AMJQ) unite to sign a petition to bring balance and truth to the discourse on the Israel-Gaza war. This group of dedicated medical professionals is stepping forward to challenge misinformation and advocate for a narrative that recognizes the humanity and suffering on both sides.
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UPCOMING EVENTS 
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Matzah Mitzvah Volunteers | April 7 – April 14, 2024
We need your help to deliver 3,000 boxes of Shmurah matzah to fellow community members in preparation for Passover. Register to Volunteer.
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Taste of Torah | April 8 – June 10, 2024
Savour your wisdom with a Monthly Taste of Torah with Rabbi Leibel Rodal from Shulounge.
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Book Club | April 8 – June 10
Meet in person with a group to discuss books in a fun, relaxed and interactive setting.
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Jewelry Workshop | April 10, 2024
Join us on the West Island for an evening of beading with Michelle Wiseman, our bead lady extraordinaire!
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SHABBAT SHALOM
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Explore Rabbi Sacks' z”l wisdom, insights, and teachings on the Torah. Read this week’s parsha.
Shabbat Candlelight
April 5 | 7:10 PM
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IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.
In case of emergency, please immediately call 911, and report all incidents to the police and then to the Community Security Network hotline at 514-343-4343 or CLICK HERE to report an incident online.
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Disclaimer
Federation CJA 360 is a news aggregate, offering readers a variety of articles and opinion pieces on topics of concern to the Jewish community and presented in a concise, convenient platform. The opinions expressed by contributors shared in Federation CJA 360 do not necessarily reflect the policies or the positions of Federation CJA, its staff or its Board of Directors.
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.
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