Toronto (November 29, 2018) - According to newly released data by Statistics Canada, hate crimes targeting the Jewish community increased by a shocking 63 per cent in 2017, rising from 221 antisemitic incidents in 2016 to 360 incidents in 2017.

"While we are not surprised, this number is an alarming call to action for government, police and educators especially. It's disturbing to hear that hate crime continues to increase in Canada and that the Jewish community – a community that is integrated into the Canadian mosaic – is still victimized by hate crime. The sharp increase is evidence that Holocaust education and advocacy is necessary now more than ever – which is why we are proud of our work," said Avi Benlolo, President and CEO of Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC).

Antisemitic hate crimes accounted for 18 per cent of all hate crimes in Canada, making the Jewish community the most targeted by hate crimes. Overall, there was a 47 per cent in crease in police-reported hate crimes in Canada, increasing from 1,409 in 2016 to 2,073 in 2017.

In a Nanos Research poll conducted by FSWC over the summer, FSWC found that 15 per cent of Canadians harbour antisemitic attitudes, representing more than 5 million citizens.

"After the attack on a synagogue in Pittsburgh last month, it is time for everyone to understand that antisemitism is lethal," Benlolo added.

FSWC regularly tracks antisemitic incidents occurring in Canada. For our map of incidents that took place in 2017 and 2018, click here.

Media Contact:

Avital Borisovsky
Communications Associate
416-864-9735 ext. 29
aborisovsky@fswc.ca