Shabbat Shalom, dear community,

As we prepare to welcome Shabbat, we also get ready to mark Canada Day—a time to reflect on what it means to be Canadian. It is a moment to celebrate the freedoms and values we hold dear: democracy, diversity, and the enduring strength of community. These are not only national ideals—they are Jewish values, too.

This week, I attended the Edmonton Community Foundation luncheon and annual general meeting, and it made me think of the power of collective giving. People give each philanthropic contribution, whether large or small, intending to make a difference, just like those made to the Edmonton Jewish Community Charitable Foundation or United Jewish Appeal. It is this spirit of generosity that builds and sustains our community. 

We also reflect on the impact of those who have made Canada their home and enriched it through their dedication. This Shabbat, we honour Federation past president Gillian Horwitz, z”l, who, alongside her husband Billy, brought her family to Canada and never stopped giving back. Gillian’s leadership, her passion for Holocaust education, and her unwavering commitment to Jewish life in Edmonton leave a legacy that inspires us all. I will miss her vivacious spirit and wise counsel, whether she offered strategic insight or reminded me (with a smile) that dangle earrings might not help me be taken seriously as a female executive. 

Gillian was also a bridge-builder beyond our community. I thought of her this week during my interview with Global Edmonton about the situation in Israel and Iran, and again when I met with Amir Gharari, an Iranian Canadian ally who has stood with us since October 7 and has launched Royal Iranian Canadian Civic Legion. Our conversation recalled how vital it is to continue advocating for truth, education, and safety here in Canada.

As we enter Shabbat, we are grateful for a quieter week in Israel. Our partners in the region have shared their recent experiences dealing with ongoing missiles, besides a report from Mashabim, the community stress prevention centre we’ve supported for years, on the critical work they did during Operation Rising Lion, and an example of a tool to help children during this stressful time. These tools are a testament to our lasting partnership and common resilience.

Through the Jewish Federation and the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), we remain committed to living proud Jewish lives in Canada—connected to Israel, engaged with Edmonton, and united in purpose. Thank you to each of you who shows up, gives, and builds. Mazel tov to Noah Shack for being named the CEO for CIJA today.

I hope to see you at Tales from Tel Aviv: It's a Queer Mitzvah, where Ashley Kravetzky will share her experience on the Jewish Federations of North America’s Pride mission. And don’t forget to sign up to volunteer at the Heritage Festival Israel Pavilion—you could even win a $25 Starbucks gift card! 

Wishing you a peaceful, meaningful Shabbat and a joyful Canada Day.

Shabbat Shalom,  
Stacey