We thank Premier David Eby for meeting with us today to hear our concerns about systemic antisemitism in his government and across our province, particularly in the public service and the province's healthcare, education, and post-secondary institutions. Events to this point, especially in the way MLA Selina Robinson has been treated, have sent a chilling message that antisemitism is tolerated in B.C. This is dangerous and contributes to the vulnerability already experienced by our community after the October 7 terrorist attacks committed by Hamas.
Our tradition teaches us that there are clear steps to take to repair relationships. The first is to understand the harm one has caused, both by action and by inaction.
We appreciate the first step taken by the Premier today. Now he must make amends for the harms he has caused and address the alarming increase in antisemitism in B.C. with concrete action.
We look forward to working with him as he takes the next steps to repair his and his government's relationship with the Jewish community and deliver actions that demonstrate that antisemitism will not be accepted anywhere in B.C. This is critical for all British Columbians. History has repeatedly shown us that hatred targeting the Jewish community does not remain directed at Jews, but spreads across society like a virus.
Sincerely,
Ezra Shanken
CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver
Rabbi Jonathan Infeld
Chair, Rabbinical Association of Vancouver
Nico Slobinsky
Vice President, Pacific Region
Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs
Stay In the Know!
Get all the latest information from our newsletter, "This Week in Canadian Jewish Advocacy."
