Canada’s Antisemitism Envoy Resigns Amid Rising Hate Crimes
Canada’s Special Envoy on Antisemitism, Deborah Lyons, has resigned, citing exhaustion from the surge in hate crimes targeting Jewish communities. The resignation comes as antisemitism in Canada has dramatically increased, with 920 reported hate crimes in 2023. Jewish leaders and former officials are urging the government to take more decisive action beyond symbolic gestures.
Lyons, who took office under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, faced a significant burden as the number of antisemitic incidents jumped following the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. The spike led to a 124% increase in antisemitism since her appointment, according to Richard Robertson of B’nai Brith Canada. She expressed frustration with the government’s response, stating it was difficult to get people to speak out against the rising hate.
Jewish leaders, including former Justice Minister Irwin Cotler, have criticized the slow governmental response, emphasizing that mere symbolic gestures are insufficient. Cotler highlighted that despite some positive steps, the government has not acted decisively enough to combat the growing threat. The Jewish community, which makes up less than one percent of Canada’s population, accounts for 18.8% of all reported hate crimes in 2024.
Lyons’ tenure saw important progress, including the publication of a handbook on the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, which is now used internationally. She also played a key role in organizing the National Forum on Combating Antisemitism. However, she feels the government has not provided the necessary support, leaving her in a position of frustration.
Noah Shack of the Center for Israel and Jewish Affairs called for immediate actions, including establishing safety zones around Jewish institutions and improving community security. He warned that the failure to address antisemitism would have serious consequences for Canadian society. The rising incidents have sparked concern for the Jewish community ahead of an upcoming election, highlighting the urgent need for a coordinated governmental response.