Ontario Premier Doug Ford marked the beginning of Yom Kippur with a message recognizing the religious significance of the Jewish Day of Atonement and reaffirming the province’s support for Jewish communities across Ontario.
In a statement issued by the Premier’s Office on September 20, Ford highlighted the traditions of reflection, repentance and reconciliation associated with Yom Kippur, considered the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. He also reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to confronting antisemitism.
Ontario Recognizes the Start of Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur begins at sunset and is observed by Jewish communities in Canada and around the world. The solemn occasion concludes a period of reflection that follows Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
Ford acknowledged the importance of the observance in his statement, emphasizing its religious and communal significance.
“As the sun sets this evening, Jewish communities in Ontario and around the world will observe the start of Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, and the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Yom Kippur is a time of reflection, repentance, atonement and renewal. Through prayer, fasting and acts of compassion, those observing Yom Kippur reaffirm their commitment to their faith and dedicate themselves to reconciliation with others in the pursuit of peace.
We extend our warm wishes to Jewish communities across the province as they observe this sacred day and remind them that we will always stand firmly with our Jewish friends, families and neighbours in the fight against antisemitism.
May this occasion bring lasting peace and hope.
G’mar Chatima Tova.”
A Day Centred on Reflection and Atonement
Yom Kippur is traditionally marked by prayer, fasting and reflection. For those observing the holiday, the day provides an opportunity to seek forgiveness, consider personal responsibilities and focus on reconciliation.
The observance is an important part of Jewish religious and community life, including for Jewish residents across Ontario. Toronto and other communities throughout the province are home to synagogues, cultural organizations, businesses and institutions serving Jewish Canadians.
Ford’s statement focused on both the spiritual meaning of the occasion and the broader importance of supporting communities as they practise their faith.
Province Reiterates Opposition to Antisemitism
The premier also used the Yom Kippur message to reiterate Ontario’s opposition to antisemitism, saying the government would continue to stand with Jewish residents, families and communities.
The statement comes as governments, community organizations and institutions across Canada continue to address concerns about antisemitism and the safety of Jewish communities. Ford’s message framed that commitment alongside the province’s recognition of Yom Kippur and its significance to Jewish Ontarians.
Message of Peace and Hope
While Yom Kippur is primarily a solemn religious observance, Ford concluded his statement with a message of peace and hope for people marking the occasion.
His closing greeting, “G’mar Chatima Tova,” is traditionally used around Yom Kippur to express good wishes during the period of reflection and atonement.
The premier’s statement forms part of the Ontario government’s recognition of significant religious and cultural observances across the province. For Jewish communities observing Yom Kippur, the occasion remains centred on faith, reflection, reconciliation and renewal.