TORONTO, ON — May 30, 2018 — With more than 2200 supporters and community stakeholders in attendance this evening, Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies (FSWC) proudly presented Toronto’s signature gala, the 2018 Spirit of Hope, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

In addition to raising more than $3.7 million in support of FSWC’s dynamic and award-winning programs, Spirit of Hope featured a thought-provoking and timely conversation between former Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper, former Prime Minister of Israel Ehud Barak and former Prime Minister of Spain Jose Maria Aznar that was expertly moderated by CBS “60 Minutes” Correspondent Lara Logan.

Tonight’s lively discussion centered around the pertinent matters of our time, including the global tide of antisemitism and the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict — an issue where the leaders expressed collective support for Israel’s right to self-defence, despite a pervasive anti-Israel bias in the media and throughout diplomatic circles.

“Many more countries are sympathetic with Israel than say so publicly,” said Harper, explaining that Israel’s small size relative to the Arab world often makes it a popular target on the world stage. “Diplomacy is often about taking the easiest path.”

In their remarks, Harper, Barak and Aznar emphasized Israel as a regional power and underscored its favourable position in the world despite the threats it faces. Barak stressed that in addition to being strong, Israel must convince people it’s “sticking to the moral high ground” through its actions.

Now in its 15th year, Spirit of Hope is one of Toronto’s most iconic fundraising events uniting global newsmakers and community influencers in a celebration of the values and freedoms we cherish as Canadians. The funds raised through this gala will go directly towards funding the organization’s grassroots outreach and social advocacy programs, including the award-winning Tour for Humanity.

“Spirit of Hope is always an enriching and uplifting event and tonight was no exception,” said FSWC President and CEO Avi Benlolo. “We are humbled by the incredible show of support and energized more than ever to continue the vital work of promoting tolerance and inclusivity for all Canadians.”

As a Holocaust survivor and witness to the darkest chapter of human history, Simon Wiesenthal dedicated his life to ensuring the horrors of the past were never repeated. The work of FSWC is inherently tied to his legacy, focusing on grassroots outreach and advocacy as a means of teaching acceptance and combatting social injustice. To date, the organization has educated more than 100,000 Canadian students through its dynamic and acclaimed programs.

For more information about Spirit of Hope and the educational and advocacy work it supports, please visit www.friendsofsimonwiesenthalcenter.com.

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