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Over 60,000 march to support Israel in Toronto under heavy police protection

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Over 60,000 people marched in Toronto in support of Israel, raising over $670,000 for those impacted by the war.
  • The annual Walk With Israel event featured heavy police protection amid counterprotests and addressed rising antisemitism in Canada.
  • Participants expressed pride and solidarity, with speakers emphasizing the fight against antisemitism and the importance of freedom and democracy.

More than 60,000 individuals gathered in Toronto for the annual Walk With Israel event, demonstrating support for Israel and raising over $670,000 for war-affected communities. The rally, which took place under significant police presence and in the context of anti-Israel counterprotests, saw participants waving Israeli, Canadian, and Iranian flags.

We've got to go strong. We have to be proud, we’re here, and we’re going to win this terrible current of antisemitism and anti-Zionism.

— Nate LeipcigerA 98-year-old Holocaust survivor, speaking at the start of the Walk With Israel event.

Organizers from the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto reported that the funds raised fell short of their $780,000 goal. Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger, 98, marked the event's start by cutting a ribbon, emphasizing the need to combat antisemitism and anti-Zionism. The event included dance performances, youth activities, and a marketplace.

We’re going to march like never before.

— Nate LeipcigerA 98-year-old Holocaust survivor, speaking at the start of the Walk With Israel event.

Political figures also voiced their support. Federal deputy opposition leader Melissa Lantsman stated participants marched for "freedom, for democracy, for the rule of law." Toronto mayoral candidate Brad Bradford highlighted the walk for "peace, justice, pluralism, and the right of every person to thrive." Leslie Church, MP for Toronto-St. Paul’s, noted the gathering's demonstration of "resilience, solidarity, and joy." Eglington-Lawrence MP Vince Gasparro addressed the rise of antisemitism, asserting that citizens should not fear practicing their religion in Canada and that combating antisemitism is a shared responsibility.

freedom, for democracy, for the rule of law.

— Melissa LantsmanFederal deputy opposition leader, describing the purpose of the march.

The Toronto Police Service, bolstered by officers from surrounding regions, provided extensive security. Deputy Chief Frank Barredo had anticipated counter-protests but warned against intimidation and harassment. Six arrests were made during the event, primarily related to altercations with counter-protesters, including one individual accused of spitting at an officer.

peace, justice, pluralism, and the right of every person to thrive in a Toronto that is welcoming, tolerant, and safe for all.

— Brad BradfordToronto mayoral candidate, commenting on the community walk.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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