Honouring the contributions of Jewish Canadians and continuing to confront antisemitism: Jewish Heritage Month 2025 

May is Jewish Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and reflect on the rich history, culture, and significant contributions of Jewish Canadians to Canada. From advancements in medicine and law to achievements in arts and academia, Jewish Canadians have played a pivotal role in shaping the diverse fabric of Canada.  

This year, as we honour Jewish Heritage Month, we must also confront the alarming rise in antisemitism across our country. Hate crimes against Jewish people increased 71% between 2022 and 2023. The massive increase of antisemitic attacks since October 7, 2023, has left Jewish Canadians fearing for their safety, with synagogues firebombed, and Jewish schools repeatedly shot at and vandalized.  

“As a parent, it’s unimaginable to send your children to a school that has been targeted in three separate incidents involving gun violence. No parent or child should have to live with that kind of fear and anxiety.”

— Mohammed Hashim, CEO of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF).

 The CRRF is committed to continuing to stand against antisemitism and all forms of racism through education, awareness, and support for initiatives that promote understanding and inclusivity. 

Over the past year, we were proud to support various initiatives that address antisemitism, including: 

• The Human Rights Day Commemoration, hosted by the Jewish Family and Child Service of Greater Toronto (JF&CS), supported through our National Anti-Racism Fund (NARF). This multi-stakeholder event featured a panel of experts discussing racism and ethnic discrimination impacting Indigenous, Black, and Jewish communities within a human rights framework, providing an essential space for reaffirming our collective commitment to upholding fundamental human rights.  
• The development of the IWalk app, a powerful new tool that enhances public engagement with the National Holocaust Monument through survivor testimonies and historical insights. The app will be officially launched in May in Ottawa.
• A major exhibition at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. Running from January 10 to September 1, 2025, this powerful exhibition presents the history and legacy of Germany’s largest concentration camp. 

As we observe Jewish Heritage Month, let us continue to honour the legacy and achievements of Jewish Canadians and renew our commitment to fostering a Canada free from antisemitism and all forms of hatred and discrimination.