Antisemitic Vandalism Shocks Toronto: Mezuzahs Torn from Doors in Targeted Attack
A shocking act of antisemitic vandalism at a Toronto seniors’ residence saw up to 20 mezuzahs torn from the doors of elderly Jewish residents, leaving the vulnerable community shaken and fearful as local leaders rushed to replace the mezuzahs.
In a brazen act of antisemitism that has left elderly Jewish residents reeling, between 15 and 20 mezuzahs were ripped from apartment doors at a seniors' housing complex in North York's Westminster neighborhood over the weekend. The incident occurred at the Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation (TSHC) building at 6250 Bathurst Street, home to many Russian-speaking Jewish seniors who rely on an on-site synagogue for daily prayers.
Residents discovered the vandalism on Sunday morning, December 8, expressing profound shock and fear. "This is an attack on our identity and safety," one anonymous senior told local media, highlighting the emotional toll on a community that includes Holocaust survivors. Some victims have declined to replace the mezuzahs, citing heightened anxiety about openly displaying Jewish symbols amid rising hate incidents.
The Toronto Police Service's Hate Crime Unit is treating the case as a potential hate-motivated crime, with an investigation underway. No arrests have been made, and the vandalism is believed to have taken place overnight between Saturday and Sunday.
Community volunteers, including local rabbis, quickly stepped in to replace the damaged mezuzahs on Sunday, aiming to restore a sense of normalcy and security for the affected residents.
Political and community leaders have condemned the attack in strong terms. York Centre Councillor James Pasternak called it "an act of hate directed at Jewish residents, seniors who deserve safety, stability, and dignity in their own homes," vowing to work with TSHC and police for a swift resolution. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow described the vandalism as "outrageous and vile," stressing that no one in public housing should fear targeting based on faith.
Jewish advocacy groups, including the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and B’nai Brith Canada, decried the incident as an escalation from verbal harassment to physical intimidation, calling for urgent measures to combat surging antisemitism. Former MP Michael Levitt and current MP Melissa Lantsman also expressed outrage, emphasizing the profound impact on vulnerable elders and Holocaust survivors.
In a show of solidarity, the Combat Antisemitism Movement has launched the #MezuzahChallenge, encouraging individuals worldwide to post photos of their own mezuzahs online to affirm Jewish pride and resilience.
This attack comes amid a reported increase in antisemitic incidents in Toronto since October 7, 2023, with organizations like StandWithUs Canada warning of ongoing threats in Jewish communities.
Police continue to seek information from the public as the investigation progresses.