Escalating Political Violence Threatens Democracy

CIJA

|September 11, 2025

Ottawa, Ontario – September 11, 2025 – In response to escalating threats of political violence, Noah Shack, CEO, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, released the following statement:

“The appalling murder of Charlie Kirk has shocked millions and cast a light on the rising tide of extremism across our society. As the Prime Minister of Canada rightly stated: “There is no justification for political iolence, and every act of it threatens democracy.”

“Here in Canada, this threat is all too real. Since the Hamas-led massacre of October 7, we have witnessed a disturbing surge in hate, intimidation, and violence. Extremists have targeted our places of worship, disrupted Pride parades, forced the closure of MPs’ offices, and created an environment where even simple activities – visiting bookstores, parks, or grocery stores – can feel unsafe.

“Just this week in Halifax, security threats by a small group of extremists at the Davis Cup forced authorities to implement emergency measures not seen since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of Canadians have been denied the chance to do something so deeply intertwined with our national identity: cheer for Team Canada.

“All levels of government need to take immediate action to safeguard our democracy and protect our Canadian way of life.

“We call on the federal government to:

Strengthen enforcement of existing laws and address gaps in Canada’s anti-terror legislation, including banning the glorification of terrorism and calls for violence against Canadians.
Boost community security, including the urgent implementation of nationwide safety zones and increasing security investments in Budget 2025.
Ensure accountability for those who commit crimes, including implementing much-needed bail reform to strengthen public safety and justice.”

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Additional Background