A record 56,000 joined Toronto’s Walk With Israel, showing unity as antisemitism rises and tensions grow over the Gaza conflict.
Record Turnout at Toronto’s Walk With Israel
Toronto witnessed a historic show of solidarity as 56,000 people gathered for the annual Walk With Israel, marking the largest turnout in the event’s history. The walk, organized by the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, drew participants from across the city and beyond, reflecting a community seeking unity amid a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents over the past year.
A Community Responds to Rising Antisemitism
Organizers and attendees emphasized that this year’s walk carried special significance. Statistics Canada reported a 71% increase in hate crimes targeting the Jewish community between 2022 and 2023, with the most dramatic spike following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks on Israel. “The more isolated we have felt, the more we crave moments like this to come together as a community, along with our friends and allies,” said Sara Lefton, chief development officer at UJA Federation.
Toronto police confirmed that antisemitic incidents now account for 43% of all reported hate crimes in the city this year, though reports are down compared to last year. The event unfolded just days after two Israeli Embassy employees were killed in Washington, D.C.—an act widely condemned as an antisemitic hate crime.
Security Tightened Amid Global Tensions
Security was heightened along the route, with a strong police presence from multiple jurisdictions. Officers worked to maintain order, especially after a 57-year-old man was arrested for allegedly shouting antisemitic slurs at participants. Authorities are treating the incident as a suspected hate-motivated crime.
Israel’s National Security Council raised its travel advisory for Canada, citing “potential threat level” due to planned counter-protests and heightened discourse around pro-Israel rallies.
Diverse Voices and Divided Perspectives
While the walk was described by organizers as a non-political, family-oriented event, not all agreed. Some, including Molly Kraft from the Jews Say No to Genocide Coalition, criticized the event, arguing it supports policies they view as harmful to Palestinians. Israel has denied allegations of genocide in Gaza, where the ongoing conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, according to local health authorities.
Fundraising and Humanitarian Impact
The walk raised over $670,000, surpassing previous years’ totals. Funds will support urgent humanitarian relief and long-term recovery in Israel, focusing on mental health support for those affected by trauma and rebuilding efforts after the October 7 attacks.
Personal Stories and Calls for Peace
The event featured survivors of the Nova music festival attack and families directly impacted by violence in Israel. Many participants carried posters of hostages still held by Hamas, expressing hopes for safety and peace for all sides. “Everyone wants peace on both sides of this conflict,” said attendee Suzanne Wintrob.
The record-breaking Walk With Israel in Toronto underscored both the resilience of the Jewish community and the deep divisions and anxieties that persist amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
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