The aftermath of the October 7th anti-Semitic attack in British Columbia continues to deeply affect the Jewish community. As the days pass, the emotional toll on those impacted only seems to grow.
“I feel very sad. I’m very angry,” said Rabbi Dan Moskovitz of Temple Sholom in Vancouver. “It’s a very difficult time for our community.”
On October 7th, a man walked into the Congregation Beth Israel synagogue in Vancouver and vandalized the building with anti-Semitic graffiti. This act of hate has left many members of the Jewish community feeling vulnerable and afraid.
“It’s a reminder that we’re not immune to hate,” said Rabbi Moskovitz. “It’s a reminder that we have to be vigilant and we have to be aware.”
The incident has also sparked conversations about the rise of anti-Semitism in Canada. According to B’nai Brith Canada, there were 2,207 reported incidents of anti-Semitism in 2020, a 16.5% increase from the previous year.
“We’re seeing a rise in anti-Semitism globally and in Canada,” said Rabbi Moskovitz. “It’s a reminder that we have to continue to educate and speak out against hate.”
In response to the attack, the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver has launched a fundraising campaign to support security measures for synagogues and other Jewish institutions. The campaign has already raised over $100,000.
“We’re grateful for the outpouring of support from the community,” said Rabbi Moskovitz. “It’s a reminder that we’re not alone in this fight against hate.”
The suspect in the attack, 47-year-old Jamie Bezanson, has been charged with one count of mischief to a religious property and one count of uttering threats. He is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on October 26th.
As the Jewish community in British Columbia continues to heal and come to terms with this act of hate, they are determined to stand strong and united against anti-Semitism.
