For immediate release
April 11, 2025
Since Oct. 7, 2023, when the Jewish community in Israel faced its largest and most deadly targeted attacks since the Holocaust, antisemitism has been on the rise across Canada and the world. According to Statistics Canada, the Jewish community is the most targeted group for hate crimes in Canada and were the target of 70 per cent of all religion-motivated hate crimes across the country in 2023. B’Nai Brith Canada also recently reported an unprecedented 6,219 antisemitic incidents in Canada last year – the highest number ever documented since the organization started its annual audit in 1982.
The Holocaust, or Shoah, was one of the darkest chapters in human history, resulting in the targeted deaths of six million Jews – an atrocity that was the ultimate consequence of anti-Jewish hate. Recognizing this as one of history’s most heinous crimes ever committed is critical to ensuring the collective post-war vow of Never Again remains as resolute today as it was 80 years ago. Each spring, the Jewish community recognizes Holocaust Remembrance Day, or Yom HaShoah, reiterating this vow. Fulfilling the vow of Never Again means actively fighting antisemitism, including educating future generations on the dangers of hate.
“Never again is now. With anti-Jewish hate on the rise in Canada and around the world, it is our responsibility to ensure our children learn the lessons of the past and are ready to stand up against hate today. Antisemitism has no place in our communities and must always be unequivocally condemned. To the Jewish community, you are not alone – Alberta’s government stands in solidarity with you against all forms of hate and oppression.”
- Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services
As part of its ongoing commitment to Never Again, Alberta’s government is investing $200,000 to support the Calgary Jewish Federation and Jewish Federation of Edmonton as they work to combat antisemitism. Both federations play an important role in educating Albertans about Jewish culture and building a vibrant, engaged and connected Jewish community in the province. This investment supports the federations’ efforts to fight antisemitism through education and promotion of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. This includes scholarships, educational and training materials for teachers and students, engagement sessions with government and law enforcement agencies, and an Alberta conference focused on antisemitism.
“The Jewish Federation of Edmonton extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Alberta for their unwavering support of the Jewish community in the face of an alarming rise in antisemitism. This generous grant is a beacon of hope in fostering resilience among Jewish Albertans. We appreciate the Government of Alberta's strong commitment to addressing antisemitism and demonstrating leadership on this issue.”
- Stacey Leavitt-Wright, CEO, The Jewish Federation of Edmonton