CIJA and Federation CJA Statement on Priorities of Montreal Jewish Community Ahead of Montreal Municipal Election

Montreal, QC – October 28, 2025 – Today, Eta Yudin, Vice President, Quebec, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), and Yair Szlak, President and CEO, Federation CJA, held a joint press conference outlining the priorities and concerns of Jewish Montrealers in the upcoming municipal election.  

The link between rising antisemitism and rising insecurity makes the fight against these phenomena a major priority for Sunday's election. “The upcoming municipal elections are therefore an opportunity to be seized, but also a test for all leaders. Public safety is not an option. It cannot be adapted according to the community to which you belong or your political allegiances,” said Eta Yudin.  

Yudin also pointed out that the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) must have all the resources it needs to counter hate speech and calls for violence. “A police force with sufficient resources and political support when it comes time to intervene is essential to protect civilians and businesses, manage demonstrations, and enforce the rule of law,” she added. 

Yair Szlak echoed these observations and requests. He spoke also on the antisemitism threatening Jewish communities: “Antisemitism has reached historic highs. According to figures recently shared by the SPVM, Montreal's Jewish community accounted for nearly 64 per cent of all hate crimes targeting religion from the start of the year to July 23, 2025.” Speaking on the upcoming vote in Montreal, Szlak said: “Regardless of who wins on Sunday night, Montrealers have a right to expect that this will be one of their top priorities. That’s why voting this Sunday matters. It means sending a message. No more blank checks.” 

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