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Earlier today, municipal and provincial leaders gathered in Toronto to observe Israel’s Independence Day (Yom Ha'atzmaut) and celebrate the Jewish state’s 76^th birthday.

Ceremonies were held at Toronto City Hall and Queen's Park, where Jewish organizations and community members were joined by city councillors, Ontario ministers, MPPs and allies from other communities to raise the Israeli flag, stand with Israel in the face of terror, demand the release of the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and make it clear that we will not be silent amid rampant anti-Israel and antisemitic hate.

FSWC President and CEO Michael Levitt shared remarks at both ceremonies.

"Israelis, like their Jewish cousins everywhere, know the power of hope and yearning for a better tomorrow. Israelis never give up. We all pray that, despite the current conflict, the day will come when Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and cooperation," Levitt said at Queen's Park. "Sadly, there are those who seek to demonize and delegitimize Israel and make Zionism a dirty word, often using the term 'anti-Zionist' as a fig leaf for anti-Jewish."

FSWC is thankful to everyone who joined us today to show their steadfast support for the Jewish state and Canada's Jewish community.

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