Quote of the Day
"The papers explained they were publishing the same front page 'because of the existential threat to Jewish life in this country that would be posed by a Jeremy Corbyn-led government.'" - Avi Benlolo
United We Stand with the UK Jewish Community
In his editorial, FSWC President and CEO Avi Benlolo writes about his disappointment in the Globe and Mail's recent analysis about the current state of affairs in the British Labour Party vis-a-vis the Jewish community. "To refer to the antisemitism in the party as mere 'controversy' is disheartening," Benlolo writes.
Canada Encouraged to Self-Direct $50 million Allocation to Palestinians
Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) is encouraging the Canadian government to ensure new $50 million in funding for Palestinians is managed and implemented directly by Canadian officials on the ground. A statement by the office of the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development, advises that the new support for Palestinians will focus on "urgent humanitarian needs and on economic growth that works for everyone."
While you are here, take a moment to learn about us
Freedom Day is one of FSWC's many educational events that inspire today's youth to stand up against hate and intolerance. Being held on September 18 this year, the event brings hundreds of students from across Ontario to Yonge-Dundas Square for an afternoon of activities, performances and inspirational speakers all in the name of freedom. Your donations help support and ensure the success of this and our many other educational programs.
Nazi Flags, Iron Crosses Spray-Painted at Indiana Synagogue
Antisemitic graffiti in Indiana has sparked worldwide outrage, including condemnations from US and Israeli leaders. Nazi flags and iron crosses were found spray painted on the wall of a structure belonging to a synagogue Saturday morning, just north of Indianapolis.
Archaeologists Discover Remains of Synagogue Destroyed by Nazis, Soviets
A team of archaeologists in Vilnius, Lithuania have discovered the bimah of a synagogue that was destroyed by the Nazis and Soviets during World War II. A school was built by Soviets in the 1950s to prevent the synagogue or another Jewish cultural centre from being rebuilt. Since the closure of the school last year, the city plans to demolish the school and build a memorial to the historic synagogue on the site.
Polish E-Commerce Company Removes Hundreds of Nazi Paraphernalia from Website
The Polish e-commerce company Allegro reportedly removed more than 1,000 items emblazoned with Nazi content by the end of June following an almost decade-long campaign by the Polish NEVER AGAIN Association. Items included necklaces, rings and badges, imitations of Nazi military decorations, CDs that featured Nazi music and more.
Jewish Teens Enlisted to Fight Antisemitism in Germany
After years of Holocaust survivors providing their testimonies to students, young Jews are now volunteering to educate people about Jewish life in Germany today. A school outreach program was launched amid rising concerns about antisemitism in the country. So far 90 Jewish teenagers were recruited for the project as more schools request workshops.
From the Arab World
A senior Hamas delegation headed to Cairo today to meet with Egyptian intelligence officials and discuss ways to achieve reconciliation with the rival Fatah faction as well as avoid military confrontation with Israel. Yesterday, a senior Fatah delegation arrived in Cairo for talks on Egypt’s latest proposal to end the Hamas-Fatah rivalry.
Summer Educator Certificate Courses Two Weeks Away!
FSWC's annual educator certificate courses are fast approaching and spots are filling up. Advance your abilities in teaching topics related to the Holocaust and genocide before the start of the new school year. To register, email education@fswc.ca.
Report Antisemitism and News of Concern to FSWC
If you would like to report antisemitism or news of concern to Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, please email aborisovsky@fswc.ca.