Dear Premier Legault,

We wish to express our appreciation to you for your steadfast support of Quebec’s Jewish community and your defence of Israel's right to protect its citizens.

We have closely followed your condemnation of the unprecedented, brutal, and murderous rampage perpetrated by Hamas terrorists against civilians in Israel on October 7, 2023. Moreover, you have consistently spoken out against the shameful anti-Israel and antisemitic rallies that have taken place in Montreal, where individuals have glorified, celebrated, and called for violence against Israel and Jews. 

We note your opposition to last week’s motion in the Quebec National Assembly calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, where you rightly indicated that the State of Israel has the right to defend its citizens against the criminal terrorists that seek its destruction.  

Our community has been a vital part of Quebec's fabric for over 250 years, proudly contributing to all aspects of society with a commitment to respect, tolerance, and peace. However, with the troubling rise of antisemitism and ongoing calls for violence against Jews, as witnessed at recent demonstrations on the streets of Montreal, we are counting on you for assurance that Quebec's values of respect, tolerance, the rule of law, and the right to protection are upheld and respected by all citizens.

We are counting on you, M. Legault, to ensure our safety and security. And we are counting on you to ensure that when the line is crossed, in terms of freedom of speech, with public cries for violence and antisemitism, the full force of the law will be exerted against those who seek to break the law.

Clearly, Quebec has chosen to embrace the opportunities it sees in opening a bureau in Israel. Once this horrific war has ended, we look forward to getting back on track in joining Minister Biron for the opening of this bureau and in continuing to build bridges and bonds that strengthen all people and societies.

Sincerely,

Yair Szlak
President & CEO 

Steve Sebag
Chairman of the Board