Vancouver, British Columbia – A shocking incident occurred at the Schara Tzedeck synagogue on Vancouver’s Oak Street, where a fire was intentionally set at the front doors. Rabbi Andrew Rosenblatt described how individuals inside the synagogue heard a commotion outside after services, only to be alerted by a passerby that their building was on fire. The Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver confirmed that the arson attack involved someone pouring fuel on the front doors and setting them ablaze.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the attack as a “disgusting act of antisemitism,” prompting a swift response from Vancouver police who are investigating the case as arson and a possible hate crime. Despite the strong smell of burning inside the synagogue, the damage seemed limited to the front doors, thanks to a quick-thinking member who extinguished the flames with his jacket.
Rosenblatt expressed relief that the fire did not cause more extensive damage, noting with concern that the attacker showed no attempt to conceal their actions. The incident, reminiscent of a dark chapter in history, left the rabbi reflecting on the changing attitudes towards the Jewish community in Canada. While the damage to the synagogue was minor and no injuries were reported, the Jewish Federation labeled it a deliberate act of hate meant to intimidate.
Deborah Lyons, Canada’s special envoy for combating antisemitism, emphasized the need to address such incidents with urgency and firm consequences for perpetrators. The string of recent attacks on Jewish institutions across different Canadian cities, including shootings at schools in Montreal and Toronto, has sparked calls for increased measures to protect these vulnerable spaces.
In response to the surge in antisemitic acts, Liberal MP Anthony Housefather urged policymakers to take tangible steps to prevent further violence, proposing the creation of safe zones around schools and places of worship. Calls to designate certain groups as terrorist organizations also gained traction in light of the escalating threats facing the Jewish community. With leaders across various sectors condemning the attack at the Vancouver synagogue, the overarching message is clear: there is no place for hate and violence in a diverse and inclusive society.