December 9, 2024

We would like the Jewish community to be informed regarding the disturbing developments in a Strathcona social media community.  It has been disheartening to witness what feels like the “ethnic cleansing” of our Jewish neighbours and their allies from this once-inclusive group. Recent events, including a disturbing sticker campaign and sidewalk graffiti calling for the annihilation of Israel,and other graphic claims, have fostered an atmosphere of hostility that has upset many families in our neighbourhood, particularly those with children. When our Jewish neighbours felt compelled to ask why they were ostracized from the group, one was told that it was because they supported Israel and another was met with the shocking response that it was for their own safety. This perception of safety should never come at the cost of community inclusion and acceptance.

Furthermore, the verbal harassment directed towards individuals—such as a senior citizen who tragically lost both her son and a husband in a terrorist attack in the early 1980s, who was verbally assaulted  with the words “baby killer” for merely wearing a dog tag—reveals a deeply troubling trend. Such actions do not represent the values of empathy and support we should uphold in our community.

In contrast to this unsettling atmosphere, it has been truly heartwarming to witness the number of non-Jewish residents who have stepped up to voice their opposition to this antisemitism. The new friendships and alliances formed through this adversity are remarkable and serve as a powerful reminder of the strength we derive from solidarity.  

To our non-Jewish friends and neighbours: your support and advocacy mean more to us than words can express. In a time when many in our community feel isolated and under attack, your courage to stand against hate and discrimination brings hope and resilience. Let us work together to foster a community where inclusion triumphs over division, and respect for one another is paramount. Our strength lies not in our differences, but in our commitment to stand together against bigotry of all kinds.

Cheers to our allies
Jan Summer, Strathcona resident