October 1, 2024
 
There is something profoundly moving about the sound of the shofar on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. In that singular moment, its call cuts through all distractions, silencing the noise around us and inviting a rare moment of reflection. It’s a powerful reminder—an awakening—that urges us to pause and contemplate.
 
As we welcome Rosh Hashanah, 5785, I am still in disbelief about the new reality that we are living as a Jewish People. Less than a century after Hitler and the Nazis sought to erase the memory of the Jews, we are once again facing an enemy intent on our destruction. The horrors we witnessed on October 7th—the brutal massacre of innocent Jews by a barbaric terrorist regime—have left an indelible mark on us all. In the aftermath, we are facing the worst wave of antisemitism of our generation, spilling onto the streets and targeting Jewish communities worldwide. Though we have not yet had the time or space to properly mourn what has transpired since October 7th, we must push forward. We have no other choice.
 
Jewish history is marred with dark days. And yet, in every generation, hope emerges. In this moment of crisis, we are witnessing a new generation of Jewish heroes emerge. It’s the very TikTok generation that many had dismissed. Still, they have shown bravery and heroism beyond what anyone could have imagined—whether in Israel or here at home in Montreal. We are also seeing a renewed engagement in Jewish life, with our community members standing proudly, refusing to retreat from Jewish life despite the threats and intimidation. And while mainstream media may paint a different picture, the reality is that we have become more united and resolute, determined that our enemy will not defeat us.
 
Rosh Hashanah is a time for reflection, introspection, and recommitment. It is a moment to remind ourselves that what unites us is far more potent than what seeks to tear us apart. It’s a time for us to draw on the inner strength of the TikTok generation, to be resilient in the face of our enemies, and to fight back. Now is the time to double down on our proud Jewish identity, for our strong sense of self will ensure our resolve. Let us remember the words of Menachem Begin z”l: “We are not Jews with trembling knees.”
 
I can only imagine that the sound of the shofar this year will carry even deeper meaning for all of us. Let each of us embody the symbolism of the shofar for those around us—breaking the silence and boldly declaring our recommitment to ourselves as Jews, our community, Israel, and the ongoing work of making this world a better place.
 
We may never return to the days before October 7th, but we will move forward—united, more resilient, and resolute.
 
May this New Year bring the immediate release of our hostages and the safe return of our soldiers to their homes.
 
Shana Tova and G’mar Chatima Tova,
 
Yair Szlak, LL.B
President and Chief Executive Officer,
Federation CJA
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