CIJA Responds to Hate Crime Charges Against Manitoba Man

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CIJA
|May 22, 2025
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Winnipeg, Manitoba – May 22, 2025 – Yesterday, the RCMP announced that a 23-year-old Manitoba man has been detained and charged with wilful promotion of hate (Criminal Code, Section 319(2)). This is the first time such charges have been laid in the province.

The individual faces four counts of wilful promotion of hate, targeting four separate communities: Jews, Muslims, non-Caucasians, the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and visible minorities.

In response, Gustavo Zentner, Vice President – Manitoba and Saskatchewan, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, issued the following statement:

“This case is a powerful reminder that hate knows no boundaries. The Jewish community is painfully familiar with being the targets of hate crimes and antisemitism, and this case underscores what we have long known – that when hate is allowed to grow unchecked, it threatens the safety of all communities. We must continue to confront shared threats, with impactful solutions, to build a safer, better future.

“We appreciate the RCMP for handling this case with the seriousness it warrants. CIJA and the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg will continue to liaise with the RCMP and law enforcement to monitor the situation and ensure the voices and concerns of our community are heard and addressed.”

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About CIJA
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs is the advocacy agent of Jewish Federations of Canada-UIA, representing Jewish Federations across Canada.