Thank you for supporting our cause to make our politicians accountable for stopping the escalation and normalization of antisemitism in our community. I sent Jill Andrews, the MPP for St Paul's an email early this morning with our petition (see the message below). I also copied many community leaders, reporters and Jewish advocacy groups.
THIS IS NOT OVER
We are keeping this petition OPEN until we hear concrete plans for addressing antisemitism in the community. PLEASE SHARE THE PETITION WITH YOUR NETWORK. We can only affect change in numbers! I appreciate your support. Below is the letter I sent with those copied. Feel free to email yourself as well!
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SUBJECT: Urgent Action Needed: Addressing Escalating Antisemitism in Our Community
TO: JAndrew-QP@ndp.on.ca
cc: blilley@postmedia.com,
lgoldstein@postmedia.com,
councillor_matlow@toronto.ca,
carolyn.bennett@parl.gc.ca,
joshualieblein@gmail.com,
lstone@globeandmail.com,
Wkinsella@gmail.com,
MStiles-QP@ndp.on.ca,
brandonjpratt@gmail.com,
kmarshall@levittllp.com,
walto113@outlook.com
I am writing on behalf of residents. We are deeply concerned about the escalation and normalization of antisemitism in our community, exacerbated by a lack of action.
Incidents include disturbing displays, disruptions targeting Jewish businesses, a swastika incident, and systemic issues within public institutions. Despite my attempt to discuss this with you, my own MPP, over the phone on 11/9, I was only able to inquire about your well-being before you talked over me about your call for a ceasefire in the middle east, conflating middle east events with local antisemitism – the topic I came to discuss. I had even sent an email on 11/1 in advance for you to have more context for the discussion. Your behavior on the call, witnessed by your own staffer, makes me extremely uncomfortable engaging in a meaningful conversation with my own MPP – a shocking reality.
We have garnered over 400 signatures as of 11/13, and the list is growing. In particular this effort has provided a voice for community members. I highly recommend you read each of the comments, which are respectful but concerned. We will keep the petition open until we see your acknowledgment of these issues with a concrete plan for action and allyship – which we know you are highly capable of. I have copied a number of other community members and leaders in hopes of providing transparency for all.
This is not a time for performative statements; we need real, impactful change. Your swift response and tangible efforts are crucial for the safety and well-being of all your constituents.
READ THE DEMAND FOR ACTION