September 2024
Jazmin Rymberg
Anti-Zionism is the latest form of the ever-evolving virus of antisemitism, reflected in the false accusations that Israel is an apartheid state committing “genocide” against Palestinians. This was the core message delivered in a recent presentation in Hamilton by Israel’s special envoy for combatting antisemitism, Michal Cotler-Wunsh.
Cotler-Wunsh and Deborah Lyons, Canada’s Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism were the featured speakers at the launch of Federation’s “Here For Good” annual Community Campaign at JHamilton on Sept. 5. Both presentations addressed the global surge in antisemitism and the urgent need for collective action.
Cotler-Wunsh highlighted the existential moment faced not only by the State of Israel but also by Jews worldwide.
She examined the mutation and mainstreaming of antisemitism, showing how this ancient hatred has evolved over time. From the 1975 UN resolution stating “Zionism is racism” to today’s demonization and delegitimization of Israel, antisemitism has transformed into a multifaceted threat. Cotler-Wunsh underscored the importance of a robust response rooted in the principles of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, which, she says, offers a crucial framework for identifying and combating antisemitism, which often masquerades as anti-Zionism or criticism of Israel. She pointed to Natan Sharansky’s Three D’s: demonization, delegitimization, and double standards, as key indicators of how antisemitism manifests both in rhetoric and action.
This framework exposes why singling out Israel for condemnation, while ignoring other global human rights violations, is more than a political stance—it’s a manifestation of deep-seated prejudice.
Cotler-Wunsh concluded her remarks by emphasizing that we are in a moment that transcends religious and ethnic identity and that Jews and their allies must take collective action in defense of the universal values of dignity and justice. She invoked the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ distinction between optimism and hope, noting that while optimism is passive, hope requires active participation and courage. Overall, her speech was a clarion call for vigilance and action in the face of an ever-mutating threat.
Deborah Lyons echoed the campaign’s “Here For Good” message when she spoke of the devastating murder of six young Israeli hostages by Hamas terrorists on Sept.1.
“These are very difficult times, but we do what the Jewish community has always done—and what I hope the larger Canadian population will do—we carry on. Because we are here for good.”
Lyon’s words struck a particular chord when she described the strength of the Hamilton Jewish community as having “hearts and spines of steel,” a nod to the city’s industrial heritage. Lyons acknowledged the many challenges the Jewish community has faced but expressed admiration for the resilience that continues to define it. “You are here for good. You belong here. This is your city, your street, your parks, your institutions, your schools, your theatres, your film festival. This is the home you have built, and no one has the right to take that sense of belonging or safety from you.”
Lyons went on to paint a picture of the confusion, fear, and uncertainty felt in Israel and in Jewish communities around the world in the wake of the Oct. 7 attacks, which she said emboldened “those filled with hatred ... to act on it, whether on the streets, in schools, on campuses, or online.”
Rejecting the notion that antisemitism is an inevitable or constant force in society, Lyons stated, “Too often, people speak of antisemitism as a perennial weed—I cannot accept that.” She called for action at all levels of government and society to confront antisemitism with urgency.
Despite the many challenges, Lyons’ message remained hopeful. She emphasized that combatting antisemitism requires the active involvement of allies across Canadian society, citing Hamilton’s Mayor Andrea Horwath as an example of swift action when called upon. “We need allies. The fight against Jew hatred requires all Canadians to stand together.”
Both Cotler-Wunsh and Lyons emphasized that the battle against antisemitism cannot be fought in isolation, and that it must be part of a broader effort to combat all forms of hatred and intolerance. Their presentations reminded the audience of the necessity to fight the virus of antisemitism, with resolve and strength. By standing together—Jews and allies—we not only protect the Jewish community but also contribute to a world where all forms of hatred are challenged. They reminded us that hope is not passive; it is a call to action, and through solidarity and shared effort, we can build a future where dignity and belonging are protected for everyone.
Finally, they reminded us that as we navigate the complexities of contemporary antisemitism, we must draw upon shared values and historical lessons to create a more inclusive and just society. Only through concerted effort can we hope to build a world where the dignity of Jewish people is upheld and protected.
