“As new city councillors prepare to be sworn in, an unsuccessful candidate’s raw concession speech is bringing an urgent issue back into the spotlight: antisemitism in Vancouver politics.”
A Campaign Marked by Hate
Following Vancouver’s recent city council byelection, ABC Vancouver candidate Jaime Stein made headlines—not for his finish in the polls, but for a powerful message during his concession speech.
“Vancouver has an antisemitism problem, and we need to address it,”
Stein said, emotionally describing the threats and vandalism he and his team endured throughout the campaign.
His comments come amid rising tensions over a resurfaced tweet by COPE councillor-elect Sean Orr, and growing concern from Jewish organizations who say this is part of a wider pattern.
Incidents Prompt Citywide Reflection
Mayor Ken Sim confirmed Stein faced multiple antisemitic incidents, calling the behavior “heartbreaking.” Social media attacks, hate-laced messages, and sign vandalism were reported throughout Stein’s campaign.
“It wasn’t one incident—there were many,” Sim said.
“It’s devastating when you have to deal with what he had to deal with.”
Stein’s plea to incoming councillors was direct:
“Stand up for Vancouver’s Jewish community. Do not incite any more hatred.”
Controversial Tweet Sparks New Outcry
At the heart of the growing controversy is a 2021 tweet by Sean Orr, the newly elected COPE councillor, which many have called antisemitic. The tweet, referencing a “secret cabal of Jews,” drew immediate backlash.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver condemned the post, calling on Orr to apologize.
“Shame on you,” said Federation CEO Ezra Shanken.
“Have we not been through enough?”
Orr Responds: Tweet ‘Taken Out of Context’
Orr defended the tweet in an interview, saying it was sarcasm meant to highlight and condemn antisemitic dog whistles, particularly the term “globalist shill.” He cited it as a reference to a David Cross comedy routine that mocked antisemitic conspiracy theories.
“I was calling out antisemitism, not spreading it,” Orr insisted.
“I want to reassure the Jewish community that I stand firmly against antisemitism.”
He further condemned the attacks on Stein and pledged to work for a safe and inclusive city for all residents.
Hate on the Rise: Police Stats Confirm Community Concerns
Vancouver Police have reported a 62% increase in antisemitism-related incidents in 2023, most of which occurred after October 7. Jewish organizations say these numbers underscore the need for vigilance—and accountability from public officials.
Election Results and What’s Next
Despite the controversy, Orr and OneCity’s Lucy Maloney finished with commanding leads in the byelection, far outpacing their challengers. The two are expected to be sworn in within weeks.
As for Stein, his loss may not mean the end of his voice in local politics. His final words at the podium struck a chord:
“This is not about an election result. This is about who we are as a city—and who we choose to stand with.”
Maple News Wire will continue covering Vancouver’s evolving political landscape and the conversations it sparks about hate, accountability, and leadership.
