As the chair of the Southern Georgian Bay Jewish Community and a mother to five children, it is my responsibility to do all that I can to create safe environments for my children and all Jewish families in this area. However, it is the policy of the Collingwood Public Library to exclude partnering to provide programming associated with any religious affiliation. Because Jewish culture and religion are so intertwined, the result is that no Jewish programming can be hosted by the library for members of the public at the Collingwood Public Library. In contrast, the Wasaga Beach Public Library and the L.E. Bruce Library in Thornbury are happy to partner with us to host Jewish public events and programming for all their patrons. I am appealing to you, the community of Collingwood, to come together to support me as I make a deputation on May 22 to the board of the Collingwood Public Library on behalf of the Southern Georgian Bay Jewish Community. 

The goal of this partnership is to offer programs and educational opportunities that celebrate, educate, and better integrate our Jewish community within the larger Collingwood population. With your backing, we can work towards fostering a sense of safety and inclusion for all Jewish families who, like everyone else, desire peace and a sense of belonging in Collingwood and its surrounding areas.

By signing this petition, you are taking a stand against division, and for the unity of all Collingwood residents. We need your support to make this vision a reality. Please sign and help transform our community into a safe haven for all families.