Hanukkah in Calgary: Global Shadows, Local Tensions, and Rising Concerns.
The Scene
Calgary felt a chill this week, far colder than any December snap, as a horrific echo from Bondi Beach rippled through our community. Local businessman Shane Wenzel put it bluntly on X, noting a "genuine concern within that community" among his Jewish friends here in Calgary, lamenting, "This isn’t the Canada I remember." This sentiment hits home, especially as our city prepared for the 37th annual menorah lighting at City Hall on December 15th, an event usually brimming with festive light and unity. But this year, a shadow looms. The mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, on December 14th, leaving at least 16 dead and dozens injured, undeniably cast a pall over Chanukkah celebrations here and across Canada. For everyday Calgarians, this means heightened awareness and perhaps a deeper sense of connection to global events, reminding us that even in our insulated city, we are part of a larger world. In a reassuring but stark response, the Calgary Police Service stepped up patrols around local synagogues and Hanukkah events, including that very City Hall lighting, a visible effort to ensure local safety.
What's Changing
What’s traditionally a beacon of light and community spirit is now entangled in local tensions. Ahead of the City Hall menorah lighting, a coalition of groups requested the event be free of 'pro-Israel messaging' and the raffling of Israeli government bonds. For Rabbi Menachem Matusof, host of the lighting, this 37-year-old tradition of raffling Israeli bond certificates is more than symbolic; he called the demands 'antisemitism.' This isn't just a debate for policy wonks; it shapes the very public spaces we share. For Calgarians attending, or simply observing, it highlights the growing complexities of public expression and the struggle to find common ground. Beyond the public square, the financial strain on our local Jewish community is stark. The Calgary Jewish Academy, a cornerstone of education and community in Ward 11, has seen its security budget 'exhausted' after implementing enhanced measures since October 7, 2023. This is a direct impact on our neighbours, affecting their sense of safety and their ability to sustain vital community services without constant financial worry.
The Neighborhood Vibe
The rising tide of concern isn’t just anecdotal. B’nai Brith Canada’s 2024 audit revealed a "triple-digit increase of 160.2%" in antisemitic incidents right here in Alberta, echoing a national surge of 124% since 2022. These aren't just numbers; they represent real fear and harassment experienced by Calgarians, changing the very fabric of our city. Our city has tried to respond, with the "Safe and Inclusive Access Bylaw," passed in March 2023, aiming to curb hateful protests near public facilities like libraries and recreation centers. And the Alberta government, recognizing the gravity, has committed $200,000 to the Calgary Jewish Federation to combat antisemitism. Yet, not everyone sees a united front. Beau Shaw of Independent Jewish Voices – Calgary, voiced a different perspective, stating that for some Jewish Calgarians, the city hall event feels "partisan" and doesn't represent their views. This complex layering of perspectives shows that while many seek unity, the path to a truly inclusive community is often fraught with differing opinions, challenging us to listen and understand across divides.
Looking Ahead
As the menorah’s lights shine, a symbol of enduring hope, Calgarians are left to grapple with these layered realities. The city we remember, as Shane Wenzel put it, is indeed facing new challenges. But our strength has always been in our ability to come together, even when tensions run high. From increased police presence on Deerfoot to the crucial work of our community federations, the goal remains fostering a city where everyone feels safe and valued. It’s a call to look beyond the headlines, to engage with our neighbours, and to reaffirm the inclusive spirit that defines the best of Calgary. The light of community, after all, shines brightest when tested.
