TERRACE, BC – A wave of anger, fear, and resolve swept through Jewish communities across Canada following Sunday’s horrific terror attack on a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. The mass shooting left at least 15 people dead and wounded approximately 42 others, with officials confirming the attack was an act of antisemitic terrorism.
The tragedy struck particularly close to home for many, as one of the victims, Chabad Rabbi Eli Schlanger, was identified as an event organizer who had deep ties to Toronto and Ottawa. Rabbi Schlanger, described as a “very special” person, was an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and leaves behind a wife and five children.
National and Provincial Leaders Offer Unwavering Support
Prime Minister Mark Carney led the national condemnation, issuing a statement that affirmed Canada’s solidarity:
“Hanukkah is a time of light amidst the darkness, and a remembrance of the resilience of the Jewish people,” Carney said. “As it commences, Canadians stand in sorrow with the people of Australia and Jewish people everywhere… and we stand together in our determination never to bow to terrorism, violence, hatred, or intimidation”.
Later Sunday, speaking at a menorah lighting ceremony in Ottawa, Carney reiterated his commitment to the Jewish community, stating, “I will always be with you, and I will not rest until we move from protection to true thriving”.
Premiers from coast to coast also shared condolences:
- B.C. Premier David Eby was “appalled by the attack”. He stated on social media, “This was antisemitic violence, plain and simple“. He added that B.C. stands united with the Jewish community and mourns the innocent lives lost.
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford called on all Canadians to stand against antisemitism and expressed hope that the Hanukkah traditions of lighting candles and sharing meals would be a comfort to Jewish friends and neighbours.
- New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt said she was saddened and angered by the news, noting, “This could have been here in (New Brunswick)”.
Skeena and Local Condemnation
The horror of the attack resonated across the country, including the Skeena region. Conservative Member of Parliament for Skeena—Bulkley Valley, Ellis Ross, offering his strong condemnation and perspective on the global climate of antisemitism.
Writing on social media on Sunday, MP Ross stated:
“Antisemitism has slowly taken hold in western worlds who need a deeper understanding of middle eastern events and culture.”
Ross addressed the broader violence, urging action beyond the immediate conflict: “Stopping the fighting and killing in Gaza is a must but we also have to stop the killing in countries outside of Gaza.”
He concluded with a warning about inaction: “There are no quick fixes but not standing up against antisemitism is wrong because it will ramp up as we are seeing today.
Inderpal Singh Dhillon, Former Liberal MP candidate for Skeena—Bulkley Valley strongly condemned the attack, joining the chorus of voices rejecting hatred and violence.
Community Defiance and Calls for Action
In the wake of the terror, Canadian Jewish leaders urged their community to push back, show extra pride, and attend public candle-lighting ceremonies throughout the eight-day holiday. However, the attack has simultaneously fueled fear, with some believing Canada is vulnerable due to a perceived failure of public officials to stop hate speech and protests featuring chants like “Globalize the Intifada”.
Jewish advocacy groups called for immediate government action:
- B’nai B’rith Canada expressed outrage and called on Ottawa to take measures to prevent similar violence in Canada. CEO Simon Wolle stated, “Our government cannot wait for blood to be shed in Canada before it acts”.
- The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs’ CEO, Noah Shack, agreed, stating urgent action was needed from the federal government to prevent acts of antisemitic violence.
The Canadian Muslim Forum also condemned the attack, stating, “This horrific act of hate reminds us that when hatred is left unchecked, no community is safe,” and reaffirmed its commitment to unity and the protection of all communities.
Australian police officials confirmed the two suspected gunmen were a father and son; the father was killed by police, and the son was wounded and taken to hospital. Among the victims were Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a Holocaust survivor who was killed shielding his wife, a 10-year-old girl, and another local rabbi.
