Security funding for Jewish groups has been long overdue

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Synagogue hosting Toronto’s longest-running Jewish congregation latest victim of city’s serial antisemitism

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Published Mar 11, 2026 • Last updated 3 hours ago • 3 minute read

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Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree looks on as Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation Minister Evan Solomon speaks during a press conference on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Photo by Blair Gable /Postmedia NetworkArticle content

Another day, another antisemitic attack.

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It’s no longer a question of will the Jewish community face antisemitic attacks, it’s a matter of when. It happens most weeks and many times for days in a row.

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So it was not lost on anybody involved that another Toronto synagogue had been vandalized on the very day federal cabinet ministers were set to announce special emergency funding to help the Jewish community fend off violent attacks.

The synagogue hosting Toronto’s longest-running Jewish congregation was the one struck this time after almost three years of serial antisemitism that has not only plagued the city, but been allowed to continue as well. While Holy Blossom Temple was thankfully not shot up like three other GTA shuls have been over the last week, signs were defaced at the front of the property – specifically a sign that reminded people the property is protected by a bubble zone bylaw for protests.

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One of the signs vandalized at the Holy Blossom Temple in Toronto on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.Temple says it reported incident to police

In a letter addressed to congregants, Rabbi Yael Splansky, executive director Rachel Malach and board chair Eric Roher wrote “overnight, two of the three signs posted outside the temple referencing the City of Toronto’s recently established ‘bubble zone bylaw’ were removed, zip ties cut and were found on the ground (Wednesday) morning. There was no damage to the building and the matter has been reported to the Jewish Security Network and the Toronto Police Service, who have further increased patrols.”

No one is suggesting this was as serious as the recent shooting incidents or equated to major vandalism. But it still is seriously disrespectful. In light of the times, it is also concerning. It’s also another example of how in 2026 anything goes in Toronto when it comes to Jewish places of worship, schools or businesses.

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You will hear a whole lot of words of regret and even dismay about that from politicians. You won’t often hear many words on what can be done about it. But on Wednesday, there was some positive, meaningful and appropriate action from the federal government.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree detailed a “dedicated investment” of up to $10 million to be provided to eligible organizations through the Canada Community Security Program. It will assist Jewish communities in “enhancing the security of their gathering spaces, including schools, daycares, overnight camps and places of worship.”

This is needed and long overdue.

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