Community Safety Must Come First on New Year's Eve

Toronto, ON – December 30, 2025 – Ahead of planned protests at Toronto's New Year's Eve celebrations, Josh Landau, Director, Government Relations – Ontario, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, issued the following statement:

"New Year’s Eve at Harbourfront is one of Toronto’s largest and most family accessible public events. People come downtown with their kids expecting a safe and welcoming celebration. That only happens when rules are clear – and enforced. 

"Last year, this event was marred by protestors calling for violence and displaying symbols associated with known terror organizations. People felt afraid. Many left early or avoided the area altogether.   

"And there are plans for another protest again this year.  

"We are living in an environment that has continuously permitted hate and calls for violence to spread without consequences, which has emboldened extremism to the point where those who engage in intimidation and hate do not fear repercussions. 

"Drive-by shootings at a Jewish day school. Vandalization of synagogues. Harassing customers of Jewish-owned businesses. Harassing Jewish families outside their homes. Tearing mezuzahs off the doors of seniors and Holocaust Survivors.  

"Canada should not be the outlier where intimidation and disruption are tolerated until it’s too late. Police and city officials can set clear boundaries in advance, enforce restricted zones, prevent obstruction, and intervene when conduct becomes intimidating and against the law.   

"Families should never have to decide whether attending a New Year’s Eve celebration is worth the risk. CIJA calls on clear enforcement of the rules and the law, so this year’s celebration is safe, welcoming for all, and uninterrupted."