*An Important Community Update from the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver*
This morning we were made aware of what appears to be an attempted firebombing at Federation-CJA West Island and Congregation Beth Tikvah in Montreal. The building was empty and no one was hurt. Police are aware and investigating. We will report when further updates are available.
Law enforcement has confirmed that there is no increased threat to Jewish communities in BC at this time.
Daniel Heydenrych-Davis, our director of security, will continue to be in touch with local law enforcement and they are maintaining their high level patrols.
Daniel has also reached out to local Jewish organizations and advised them to review and follow their established security protocols. Our Community Security Advisory Committee is continuing to monitor the situation and will update organizations as needed.
Community security is one of our Federation’s strategic priorities. It is an area in which we have long taken a proactive approach and in which we have invested significantly over many years.
We are deeply concerned about this incident in Montreal. It is an example of how antisemitic intimidation and the glorification of terror on the streets can turn to real world violence.
Antisemitism and the glorification of terror must be called out and condemned wherever it rears its ugly head, whether it’s words or actions. None of it belongs in our streets. The perpetrators must be held accountable. We stand in solidarity with our family, friends, and colleagues in Montreal.
Unfortunately, the situation today is a reminder of the role each of us plays in keeping our community safe. If you see something suspicious or that is hateful to our community, say something. You can file an incident report here. True emergencies should be reported to to police via 911 immediately.
If you are planning to attend the vigil tonight at 6:30 at the Vancouver Art Gallery, please know that there will be significant police presence there.
