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In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, approximately 60,000 individuals participated in the annual Walk with Israel march in Toronto on Sunday, marking the largest turnout in its 57-year history. This year’s event comes amidst heightened concerns regarding antisemitism, with many attendees expressing that their presence was more crucial than ever. The march, dubbed Canada’s largest gathering of the Jewish community, took place against a backdrop of increasing violence against Jewish institutions, particularly following the recent surge in anti-Israel sentiments.
A Show of Unity
Participants donned blue and white T-shirts, filling the streets as they danced and sang along the nearly four-kilometre route. The atmosphere was one of celebration intertwined with a palpable sense of urgency. “We can’t let the hate win. We have to be brave. We can’t be scared. We can’t let the intimidation stop us,” declared Josh Ublansky, a teacher proudly displaying a pride flag adorned with the Star of David.
Despite the buoyant spirit of the march, the event unfolded against a tense backdrop. Reports from Toronto’s police indicate a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents, including attacks on synagogues, schools, and businesses, coinciding with the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. The situation has been further inflamed by a series of protests against Israel since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, followed by Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Security Precautions in Place
In anticipation of potential unrest, Toronto Police assured attendees of a robust security presence designed to maintain order and protect marchers. Despite these efforts, a few altercations were reported, leading to six arrests by late Sunday afternoon. A group of protesters carrying Palestinian flags and anti-Israel placards gathered at a key intersection along the route, creating a standoff as tensions flared. Some marchers attempted to shield themselves with a large Israeli flag while others played music to drown out the opposing chants.
Noa Levy, a community member armed with a hot pink megaphone, voiced her concerns regarding the protests. Advocating for stricter legislation against anti-Israel rhetoric, which she perceives as hate speech, Levy stated, “The law is not helping us, unfortunately. We should be more protected.” Her sentiments echo those of many within the Jewish community who feel increasingly vulnerable in the current climate.
A Call for Solidarity
For many participants, the march represented a vital opportunity to showcase Jewish unity in the face of adversity. “This year it’s more important than ever to come to Walk with Israel to support the community, to show up, to stop hatred and show ourselves,” remarked Alexander Khemlin, an immigrant from Israel. Owen Gottfried, who relied on a walker to participate, added, “We’ve got to stand together.”
However, the event wasn’t without its shadows. Some individuals expressed that they had chosen to stay home, fearful of the rising hostilities. Sara Lefton, chief development officer of the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, acknowledged the necessity of heightened security measures, stating, “The unfortunate part is that we require a tremendous amount of security.”
The gathering also saw Iranian Canadians join the march, some waving pre-revolution flags as a symbol of their shared opposition to the regime in Iran. “Our Jewish friends, they face rockets, bombs, missiles from the same regime,” explained Salman Sima, an activist and former political prisoner. “We have the same enemy, same history, same culture. Let’s fight this enemy together.”
Why it Matters
The Walk with Israel march transcends mere numbers; it embodies a profound expression of resilience and communal strength in the face of adversity. As antisemitic incidents continue to rise, events like this serve not only as a platform for solidarity but also as a crucial reminder of the need for vigilance, understanding, and unity across diverse communities. In a world increasingly marked by division, the march underscores the importance of standing together against hatred and for mutual support. It highlights the enduring power of community and the vital role it plays in safeguarding cultural identities amid challenging times.
