This morning, we all awoke to the news that Canada's National Holocaust Monument has been defaced with blood-red paint.

Those targeting the Jewish community know no bounds. This wasn't just an act of hateful vandalism. It was a direct assault on the memory of the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust, and a slap in the face to survivors and their families.

The Jewish community has felt the devastating impact of the rise in Jew-hatred since October 7th. Today's news is deeply personal to me. When I had the privilege to serve as a Member of Parliament, one of my first responsibilities was to work with the incredible committee that brought the National Monument to life. I saw firsthand the level of care, conviction, and thought that went into this powerful memorial, which serves as a warning to future generations.

To see it defaced today is devastating. But to know that it happened just steps from Parliament Hill only strengthens my determination.

Every Member of Parliament in the House of Commons today should ask themselves: What will I do about this? Because as much as our community welcomes expressions of sympathy, statements alone won't stop the hate we're facing.

It's time for actions that will send an unmistakable message to those who are perpetrating hate on our streets and in our communities:

Every time you target Jews, you will achieve the opposite of your goal. You won't scare us. You won't infect others with your hate. But what you will do is provoke the full force of Canadians fighting back.

When a Holocaust memorial becomes fair game for vandalism and misguided protest, it must be Canada's call to action.

Sincerely,

Michael Levitt
President and CEO
Friends of the Simon Wiesenthal Center

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