Jewish Federation of Ottawa says hate will not stop Hanukkah celebrations

The Jewish Federation of Ottawa says Hanukkah events will still go ahead with increased police presence in light of what authorities are calling a terrorist attack at a Jewish event in Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.

“The Jewish Federation of Ottawa is horrified by the antisemitic terrorist attack in Australia targeting the Jewish community as they marked the first night of Hanukkah,” the federation says in a post on social media. “Our hearts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected.”

At least 16 victims have been confirmed dead and another 38 wounded after two men opened fire on groups of people gathered to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah.

Authorities say hundreds had gathered for the Chanukah by the Sea event celebrating the start of the eight-day Hanukkah festival.

The massacre has been labelled an act of antisemitism and terrorism by local authorities, and marks a rise in antisemitic attacks across the globe.

The Jewish Federation of Ottawa says it will not allow hatred to stop its celebrations of the Jewish holiday.

“We will continue to gather, to celebrate, and to live our Jewish lives openly and proudly,” the federation says.

“It is essential that everyone in Canada feel safe to practice their religion and culture, both in public and private spaces, without fear of intimidation or violence,” Pauline Colwin, vice president of Communications at the Jewish Federation of Ottawa said in a statement to CityNews. “We ask fellow Ottawans and all Canadians to join us in raising their voices against hatred, extremism, and the normalization of violence in our public discourse. Silence in the face of such rhetoric allows it to spread. Standing together against it helps keep all communities safe.”

The federation says it has been in contact with Ottawa Police to ensure that the Jewish community feels safe at celebrations across the city.

“Especially during Hanukkah, a holiday rooted in resilience, courage, and the refusal to be intimidated, we will continue to gather, to celebrate, and to bring light into the world,” Colwin said. “We will do so with vigilance, gratitude for our law enforcement partners, and a firm commitment to peace and human dignity.”