Jewish Group Reports 32 Antisemitic Incidents in Canada, Urges Action

A recent report from B’nai Brith Canada highlights a troubling surge in antisemitic incidents, with the group documenting **32 occurrences** across the country in just one week. In light of this alarming trend, B’nai Brith is urging Prime Minister **Mark Carney** to take immediate action. The incidents include the defacement of a synagogue in **Winnipeg** with swastikas and hateful graffiti, harassment of a Jewish couple in a **Toronto** mall, and inflammatory remarks made at a rally in **Montreal**.

B’nai Brith Canada has actively tracked antisemitic incidents since it began its annual audit in **1982**. In a letter to Carney, the organization called for the establishment of a **Royal Commission of Inquiry** into antisemitism and the appointment of a new special envoy dedicated to combating this issue. The group’s social media post on **January 14, 2026**, described the recent spike as a “warning signal” that requires more than “piecemeal reactions.”

Escalating Antisemitism in Canada

The 32 reported incidents span five provinces, indicating a nationwide challenge. B’nai Brith emphasized that antisemitism in Canada is on the rise, manifesting in various forms across different platforms and public spaces. The advocacy group drew parallels to a **December 14, 2023**, terror attack on Australia’s Jewish community at **Bondi Beach**, where **15 individuals** lost their lives. In their communication, B’nai Brith stressed, “Canada cannot wait for a Bondi of its own before acting.”

Last week, the Australian government announced an inquiry to investigate antisemitism and to address the Bondi Beach attack. B’nai Brith is advocating for a similar inquiry in Canada, which would have the mandate to evaluate the current antisemitic landscape, identify systemic drivers, and offer actionable recommendations for policymakers.

While findings from such inquiries are not legally binding, they have historically been influential in shaping public policy. The federal government notes that the final reports of commissions are among the most significant publications in Canadian history, providing valuable insights into societal issues.

Calls for Legislative Action

B’nai Brith also urged the government to appoint a successor to **Deborah Lyons**, who served as Canada’s Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism until her retirement in **July 2023**. The government is currently in the process of nominating a replacement.

In response to B’nai Brith’s letter, a spokesperson for Carney’s office acknowledged receipt of the communication. The spokesperson stated that the government is actively working to combat antisemitism and protect Jewish Canadians, who have faced a disturbing increase in hate, particularly since the **October 7, 2023**, terrorist attack by Hamas.

The spokesperson highlighted the introduction of the **Combatting Hate Act**, known as **Bill C-9**, which aims to outlaw intimidation and obstruction faced by individuals accessing religious or cultural sites. They also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance the **Canada Community Security Program**, which provides funding to communities vulnerable to hate-motivated crimes.

Additionally, the government is addressing radicalization through initiatives like the **Community Resilience Fund**, which supports organizations dedicated to preventing and countering violent extremism. The statement concluded with a commitment to ensure that Jewish Canadians can live freely and safely.

As the situation evolves, B’nai Brith Canada has reiterated that “antisemitism is accelerating.” The organization believes that it is crucial for the government to act decisively rather than reactively in order to address this deepening crisis.