While reactions and viewpoints vary regarding decisions made by the Israeli government, the Jewish Federation remains focused on local priorities—ensuring our community’s security needs are met and combating antisemitism. Through our advocacy partner, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), we can voice our concerns—both collectively and individually—about recent statements made by Prime Minister Mark Carney. As shared on the CIJA Action Hub:

“Our community wants an end to this painful conflict and a better future where Israelis and Palestinians can coexist in peace. But that future is only possible when statehood is conditioned on real change.”

In the spirit of cultural celebration and community engagement, our community proudly hosted the Israel Pavilion at the Heritage Festival this past weekend. Months of planning and collaboration went into creating a vibrant and professional showcase of Israeli culture and tradition. I’m incredibly proud of our staff and the more than 60 volunteers who made this event a success. Thanks to support from the Alberta government’s ethnocultural grant, we were able to enhance the pavilion with features such as a drip irrigation display (developed in Israel), a sukkah symbolizing connection to the land, and additional entertainment. Special thanks to the Aviv dancers and the Elliott Steinberg Trio, who performed with enthusiasm—rain or shine!

With over 10,000 visitors, our volunteers shared how meaningful it was to connect with attendees—many of whom expressed support for our community and Israel, showed interest in traveling to Israel, or asked thoughtful questions. We were able to ensure a safe and welcoming environment thanks to our dedicated security team, composed of professionals and trained volunteers, and the consistent presence of the Edmonton Police Service.

Beyond events, we continue to prioritize education and awareness. We’ll keep bringing you webinars from the Jewish Federations of North America and CIJA, often organized on short notice. These sessions are shared via email and offer valuable insights. This past week’s briefings featured Israeli journalist Haviv Rettig Gur and Alan Kessel, who offered insights into the complexities of Palestinian statehood. For additional perspective, I recommend the Call Me Back podcast hosted by Dan Senor—it’s consistently nuanced and thought-provoking.

We’re committed to nurturing Jewish identity through impactful programs and events. Through programs like the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) launch featuring Eitan Chitayat (I’m That Jew), we’re helping shape the global conversation around Jewish identity. We’re also proud of our local teens who deepened their roots at Camp BB Riback and represented Team Alberta at the JCC Maccabi Games. Yasher Koach to all participants for their fair play, respectful behaviour, and to the chaperones and delegation head who made it all possible.

Looking ahead, there are more opportunities to get involved. Please consider volunteering at one of the upcoming casinos run by local Jewish organizations. Each shift can generate thousands of dollars in support. It’s a meaningful way to give back and connect with others. You’ll find sign-up links on our website calendar.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stacey