Before a crowd of thousands outside the Russian consulate in Toronto, who rallied yesterday in support of Ukraine, Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) President and CEO Michael Levitt expressed his solidarity with the embattled Ukrainian people. Speaking out against Russia's illegal, immoral and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, he called on all freedom-loving people to raise their voices in anger and call on their governments to take action to protect Ukrainians and hold the Russian president accountable for his war crimes.

"Today we stand united for the freedom, independence and peace for Ukraine," Levitt told the crowd. "Today we stand in resolve to defend the innocent against the guilty, to uphold the sacred values of democracy against the threat from delusional autocrats and fascists. Today, we stand with the heroic people of Ukraine, for whom my heart cries out."

FSWC was proud to join CIJA in representing the Jewish community participating in the event, hosted by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress.

The Jewish community knows only too well what can happen when the world looks away and fails to act when the freedom and lives of fellow human beings are taken away. We all have a collective responsibility to stand as allies, speak out and protect those facing the atrocities of deranged despots like Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Watch an excerpt from Michael Levitt's speech below and join us in standing with Ukraine.

‍