As we welcome the peace of Shabbat, it’s a moment to reflect not only inward but also on the work we do as a community in the broader world. Advocacy is not just a responsibility—it’s a sacred commitment to the well-being, dignity, and safety of our Jewish community and the values we hold dear.  

Ongoing advocacy, showing up in public spaces, and nurturing key relationships are essential to shaping the environment in which we live. The Jewish Federation, with its unique vantage point, plays a central role in this effort. We can stand back and look at the overall picture—connecting partners, donors, and leaders across sectors to ensure a strong, vibrant future for our local community, for Israel, and for Jews around the world.  

This past month alone has shown the power and reach of our advocacy efforts. At our Pride event, we welcomed government policy advisors and representatives from the Edmonton Police Service’s Equity, Diversity, and Human Rights branch to hear about LGBTQ+ rights in Israel. Ashley’s powerful story—of fleeing under a ballistic missile fire—offers a deeply personal lens on resilience and identity, reminding us that speaking up is further about amplifying lived experience.  

We also had the privilege of hosting the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) CEO Noah Shack, who shared updates from the organization’s strategic plan and listened to our local priorities. His visit underscores how our community's voices contribute to shaping national advocacy strategies.  

At the annual Calgary Stampede breakfast, a meaningful partnership we have with Calgary Jewish Federation, CIJA, and the Canadian Jewish Political Affairs Committee (CJPAC) allowed us to engage MLAs, MPs, and dignitaries, including Israel’s Ambassador Iddo Moed. This kind of public engagement ensures our presence and policymakers know and respect our values.   

Looking ahead to the Heritage Festival, our recent meetings with city officials, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) leadership, and national security partners reflect our deep commitment to safety, collaboration, and preparation. Our advocacy is local and at a national level, practical and strategic—protecting our spaces while proudly showcasing our way of life. 

Thank you to those of you who have already signed up for a shift at the Israel pavilion—a longstanding tradition and our biggest hasbara opportunity. Shifts are still available. It’s a wonderful way to showcase the beauty and culture of Israel, meet fellow community members, and be part of a significant undertaking. 

This Shabbat Beth Israel Synagogue helps further building our community’s partnership with EPS by honouring Constable Daniel Woodall with a kiddush lunch. On June 8, 2015, in West Edmonton, an assailant fatally shot Cst. Woodall of the Edmonton Police Hate Crimes Unit while attempting to execute an arrest warrant. You can read the background story explaining how antisemitism is linked to this incident. We thank Beth Israel for hosting this special event. 

As we rest this Shabbat, let us take pride in the strength of our collective voice. May we lead with purpose, build trusted relationships, and remain—united, visible, and unwavering in our commitment to a safer and stronger Jewish future.  

Shabbat Shalom, 

Stacey