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

Over the past several years, Alberta’s government has continued to stand with the Jewish community against antisemitism. Holocaust education is now a mandatory component of the Alberta’s social studies curriculum and Alberta’s government formally endorses the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism. A variety of programs and supports have also been introduced to help fight hate and bias-motivated crimes across the province. This includes law enforcement resources such as the Hate Crime Coordination Unit and funding for security improvements and risk mitigation so Albertans can gather and worship in peace.

“Calgary Jewish Federation is deeply grateful to the Government of Alberta for this important support in combating antisemitism. This grant is not only an investment in the safety and well-being of our community, but also a clear statement that hate and intolerance have no place in our province.”

Rob Nagus, CEO, Calgary Jewish Federation

“We are pleased to see this meaningful commitment from the Government of Alberta to stand with the Jewish community and support the Calgary and Edmonton Jewish Federations. At a time of rising antisemitism, we must all work together to ensure Alberta remains a safe and welcoming place for Jewish life to thrive. We thank the Government of Alberta for their ongoing support."

Richard Marceau, vice president, external communications and general counsel, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs

Quick facts:

  • The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance formally adopted the following working definition of antisemitism in 2016: “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred towards Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, towards Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
  • Albertans are encouraged to report antisemitic incidents to B’Nai Brith Canada’s Anti-Hate Hotline at 1-844-218-2624, [email protected], through the Anti-Hate app, or by visiting its website.

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