Community Alert: Antisemitic Incidents on the Rise
05/14/21: As incidents of violent and online Antisemitism are impacting the Jewish community, I am especially calling on police, political leaders and universities to immediately and proactively secure the Jewish community and condemn these assaults.
The following incidents are examples which have been reported to date:
A young Jewish man who wanted to rent a Uhaul was chased out of the store after (in conversation) he identified himself as being Jewish.
A TicToc made by two university students showed them dancing and burning the Israeli flag.
Reports of teachers posting advisories to their colleagues suggesting there is a “genocide happening in Palestine”.
Reports that Palestinian supporters roamed Jewish areas screaming “free Palestine” and throwing stones, kicking cars and threatening people.
Jewish community members have raised concern over planned pro-Palestinian rallies this weekend that may become violent.
Online - numerous of antisemitic postings have been reported.
As the situation in the Middle East continues to degrade, Jewish communities around the world are being targeted and assaulted. It’s incumbent on authorities to take every precaution necessary to ensure the safety and security of our citizens. This entails more patrols of Jewish neighbourhoods, synagogues and schools; condemnation and honest statements by politicians (not excusing the attack on Israel) and proactive measures undertaken by university administrations relating to online antisemitism.
Finally, I am calling on the Jewish community to take every precaution possible especially in this heated climate. Should an antisemitic incident occur, please contact police or 911 and file a report immediately. I will also make myself available to anyone who reaches out to me for advice or assistance in navigating critical community issues.
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Avi Abraham Benlolo, BA MA, Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa)
Order of Vaughan, Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal, Race Relations Award
avibenlolo@icloud.com www.avibenlolo.org
ABOUT: Avi Abraham Benlolo has been described as the nation's most prominent and noted expert in Holocaust studies, in countering Antisemitism and promoting human rights. He has dedicated nearly three decades in executive capacities, was founding President and CEO of a major organization in the Jewish community, has raised over $150 million for charities and is a leading voice in Canada. His academic research, graduate degree, Ph.D. coursework and nearly three decades of professional work has focused on these arenas in addition to peace and security in the Middle East. He has published hundreds of articles in these areas. In recognition of his national and international leadership in this area, he has received numerous awards including an Honorary Doctorate from a prestigious Israeli university for his work in Holocaust studies and combating antisemitism; an Order of Vaughan for his distinguished contribution to anti-racism, equity and diversity; the Queens Diamond Jubilee Award for his contributions to Canada and a race relations award for best practice, based on distinguished service in promoting human rights.
As a supporter of Israel, he is proud to have established "The Avi Benlolo Scholarship Fund in National Security" at Haifa University.