At Jewish Vote Canada, our mission is to research all individuals running for a seat in Canada’s Parliament and analyze their positions on key Jewish issues. These include antisemitism in Canada, the rise in antisemitic hate crimes, their response to the October 7th, 2023 Hamas attacks, and their stance on Israel’s war against Hamas.
Based on their words and actions following October 7th, 2023, we categorize each candidate accordingly.
We view the anti-Israel Opposition Motion 658 - Canada’s action to promote peace in the middle east as a litmus test for our elected representatives.
If a candidate has been a vocal ally of the Jewish community but failed to vote down this motion, they have not received an endorsement.
A Candidate receives an endorsement if they have been a vocal ally of Canada’s Jewish community post October 7th, 2023, and if they are an incumbent MP, voted ‘Nay’ on Opposition Motion 658.
We oppose candidates who have failed to vocally support the Jewish community in Canada post October 7th, 2023, have spread anti-Israel rhetoric, and if they are an incumbent MP, voted ‘Yea’ on Opposition Motion 658.
A candidate who has remained silent on Jewish issues post October 7th, 2023, will be noted as such.
A few candidates have been vocal allies to Canada’s Jewish community, but when asked to vote on Opposition Motion 658, they voted ‘Yea’. These candidates are noted as “It’s Complicated.”
The data is clear:
Antisemitism is rising in Canada, and it’s taking increasingly dangerous forms.
The Stats
In 2023 alone, over 3,600 incidents of antisemitism were reported - the highest number ever recorded in Canada.
Harassment continues to be the most common type of incident, but violent attacks and vandalism are growing, especially in the aftermath of the October 7th Hamas attacks and the subsequent war in Israel.
This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about safety, identity, and the right to live free from hate. Jewish Canadians are being targeted at schools, in public spaces, online, and at places of worship.
Why Political Advocacy Matters
Now more than ever, we must ensure that the leaders we elect take antisemitism seriously and actively work to combat it.
That means:
Condemning hate clearly and unequivocally, including the crimes of October 7th
Supporting policies that protect minority communities
Standing with Jewish Canadians when antisemitism occurs - not just in words, but in actions
Jewish Vote Canada is committed to holding candidates accountable. We analyze their positions, public statements, voting records, and responses to Jewish issues - especially following key moments like October 7th, 2023.
Our goal is to empower the Jewish community to make informed choices at the ballot box.
Political neutrality in the face of hate is not an option. Advocacy is.