TORONTO — Ontario Premier Doug Ford marked the beginning of Hanukkah on Sunday with a message of support for the province’s Jewish community, linking the holiday’s themes of resilience and hope to renewed global concerns about antisemitism following violent attacks in Sydney, Australia.
In a statement released by the Premier’s Office on December 14, Ford acknowledged the start of the eight-day Festival of Lights, which begins at sundown and is observed by Jewish families through the lighting of the menorah, shared meals and time spent with loved ones. His remarks emphasized the historical and spiritual significance of Hanukkah while underscoring the responsibility of governments to ensure religious communities can practise their faith safely.
“Tonight, at sundown, as Jewish families across Ontario and around the world gather to light the menorah, I want to extend my strong support and warmest wishes to our Jewish community this Hanukkah. This festival is a celebration of the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days, symbolizing the enduring strength of the Jewish people and the importance of resilience, faith and the triumph of hope over adversity,” Ford said.
Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem more than two millennia ago and centres on the story of a small amount of oil that, according to tradition, burned for eight days. Ford drew a direct connection between that symbolism and current events, noting that the holiday’s message resonates strongly amid acts of violence targeting Jewish communities.
“Today, in the wake of the terrible terrorist attacks that took place in Sydney, Australia, that message of resilience and triumph over adversity is more important than ever,” he said.
While the premier did not elaborate on the details of the attacks, his statement reflected a broader concern shared by political leaders internationally about rising antisemitism and threats to Jewish institutions. Ford reiterated his government’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and standing against hate, framing the issue as both a provincial priority and a shared societal obligation.
“Our government will always support the right of Jewish communities here in Ontario and around the world to express their faith freely, without fear or intimidation,” Ford said. “Hanukkah’s message of light overcoming darkness reminds us of our shared responsibility to combat hate and antisemitism wherever it appears.”
Ford also offered condolences to those affected by the violence in Australia, acknowledging the emotional impact such events can have on Jewish communities far beyond the immediate location of an attack. “As we grieve for the victims and families of the horrific violence in Sydney Today, we stand with our Jewish friends and neighbours in the fight against antisemitism. We pray for those impacted by this senseless violence and that those responsible will be brought to justice,” he said.
The premier’s statement went beyond condemnation and remembrance, highlighting the role of cultural and religious traditions in fostering connection and mutual support during challenging times. He noted that Hanukkah customs serve as a reminder of the importance of community, particularly when individuals and families are coping with fear or grief.
“Hanukkah traditions, including lighting candles, sharing meals and spending time with loved ones, serve as a powerful reminder of the value of community and how we can lift one another, even in difficult times,” Ford said. “I hope that these traditions are a comfort to our Jewish friends and neighbours this Hanukkah.”
Ontario is home to one of Canada’s largest Jewish populations, with significant communities in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa. In recent years, Jewish organizations across the country have called for stronger measures to address hate crimes and antisemitic incidents, particularly as tensions abroad have increasingly influenced domestic discourse.
Ford concluded his message by extending holiday wishes and emphasizing the broader relevance of Hanukkah’s themes for the province as a whole. “To everyone celebrating, may Hanukkah bring light into your homes and hearts, and may its message of hope inspire us to work toward a better future for all of Ontario. Chag Hanukkah Sameach.”
The statement is part of a series of holiday messages issued annually by the province and reflects the government’s effort to publicly recognize religious observances while addressing issues of public safety and social cohesion. For many in Ontario’s Jewish community, the premier’s remarks come at a time when public expressions of solidarity from political leaders carry heightened significance.
