Based on coverage from Castanet, The Times of Israel, Toronto Star, CP24, and VIN News.
Toronto Police Investigate Mezuzah Thefts
Toronto police are investigating a series of thefts involving mezuzahs, small Jewish prayer scrolls traditionally affixed to doorways, in North York. This marks the second such incident in the area this month. Officers were called to a condominium near Finch Avenue East and Bayview Avenue on Christmas Day, where mezuzahs were reportedly removed from three units. The Toronto Police Service's hate crime unit has been notified, and the investigation is ongoing.
Community Outrage Over Antisemitic Acts
The thefts have sparked outrage within the local community, particularly as one of the stolen mezuzahs belonged to a Holocaust survivor. James Pasternak, the city councillor for York Centre, described the incidents as "disturbing" and indicative of the broader issue of hate infecting Toronto. He emphasized the need for universal condemnation and consequences for the perpetrators. The affected building is home to many Jewish residents, including seniors, which has heightened concerns about their safety and well-being.
Previous Incidents and Rising Antisemitism
Earlier this month, approximately 20 mezuzahs were stolen from an apartment building at Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue West, less than a 10-minute drive from the latest incident. These thefts occurred just before the start of Hannukah, adding to the distress within the Jewish community. B'nai Brith Canada has labelled these acts as yet another example of antisemitic hate in Toronto. The incidents come amid a reported surge in hate crimes against Jewish Canadians, a trend that has been exacerbated by recent geopolitical tensions.
Calls for Action and Community Support
Local leaders and community organizations are calling for increased vigilance and support for affected residents. Mayor Olivia Chow has pledged to work with housing organizations to address these incidents. Meanwhile, Toronto police continue to urge anyone with information to come forward. As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of all residents, particularly those in vulnerable communities.
Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3 | Source 4 | Source 5
All sources reported that Toronto police are investigating the theft of mezuzahs from Jewish homes in North York, with the hate crime unit involved, marking the second such incident this month.
- Differences Section:**
- The Times of Israel highlighted that one of the stolen mezuzahs belonged to a Holocaust survivor and mentioned the proximity of the incident to a synagogue previously targeted by antisemitic attacks.
- Toronto Star provided context about the incidents occurring around the Jewish holiday of Hannukah and included a quote from Mayor Olivia Chow condemning the acts as antisemitic.
- CP24 specified that the mezuzahs were "ripped" from the doorways and emphasized community concerns about the impact on seniors.
- VIN News noted that the mezuzahs appeared to have been forcibly taken and included a call for public accountability and condemnation.
