Statement from the Canadian Reform Community regarding publicly named Canadians who serve or have served in the IDF

We are outraged over hearing the news of a website that publicly names Canadians who serve or have served in the IDF, posing a direct threat to their safety and to the safety of Canadian Jews as a whole. The nature of this publication is both distressing and dangerous, and it is imperative that we address the serious implications it carries.

History has shown us the perils of public denunciations of Jews, from centuries-old accusations that fueled violent pogroms to more recent incidents where inflammatory rhetoric has led to real-world harm. These tactics have long been used to ostracize and endanger Jewish individuals and communities. The publishing of names in this context, particularly during heightened global tensions, is an alarming echo of that history.

We recognize and respect that it is entirely appropriate to critique the policies of any government, including Israel’s. However, we must also remain vigilant in identifying when criticism of Israel crosses into antisemitism. This distinction is critical, and we urge everyone to be aware of how anti-Israel sentiment can serve as a smokescreen for deeply ingrained antisemitic narratives.

In response to this situation, legal efforts are already underway to address this harmful publication. While these steps are being pursued, we strongly encourage any congregation or individual who feels at risk to immediately contact their local law enforcement agency. Ensuring that authorities are aware of the situation and any related security concerns is an essential measure in safeguarding our community.

We understand this is a deeply troubling time for many, and we want to assure you that we stand together as a community to confront these threats. We encourage open dialogue and vigilance as we navigate this challenge. 

Reform Jewish Community of Canada

Len Bates

President

Reform Rabbis of Canada

Rabbi Daniel Mikelberg

Chair

ARZA Canada

Jeff Denaburg and Judith Wiley

Co Chairs

The Reform Jewish Community of Canada (formerly the Canadian Council of Reform Judaism) provides vision and voice to build strong communities that, together, transform the way people connect to Judaism and change the world. Our legacy, reach, leadership, and vision ensure we can unite thousands of years of tradition with modern experience to strengthen Judaism today and for generations to come. More than 20,000 Canadians are affiliated with 25 Reform congregations across Canada who are also members of the North American Reform community which has at its core the 850-congregation strong Union of Reform Judaism, or URJ.

ARZA Canada is the Zionist Organization of the Canadian Reform community. With over 8,400 members, ARZA Canada connects with Reform communities throughout Canada, fosters connections with and strengthens our ties to the Reform Movement in Israel, and works to realize the vision of Reform Zionism.

The Reform Rabbis of Canada brings together the spiritual leaders of the Canadian Reform community. We are the rabbinic leaders within the synagogues affiliated with the RJCC and are the voice of the Canadian Reform community.