VICTORIA, B.C. — I am saddened and disappointed to hear of the racist and antisemitic graffiti that was left on the Congregation Emanu-El building this weekend. As the oldest synagogue in Western Canada, Congregation Emanu-El and the Jewish community have been, and remain, a key part of the Victoria community, and this disturbing vandalism is deeply harmful.
Hate has no place in our community. Victorians are kind and welcoming, and this incident does not represent the values that I know Victorians share. I am pleased that the police are investigating this crime. I’ve conveyed my sorrow and support to the Synagogue’s leaders.
I encourage anyone with knowledge of this matter to contact VicPD. I want the Jewish Community in Victoria to know that this behaviour is unacceptable, and my heart is with you. Together, we all must stand up against hate, and I will continue to work to make Victoria a safe and welcoming place for all.
If you, or someone you know is affected by this, or other hate motivated crimes, I encourage you to contact VictimLinkBC for free and confidential support services.
Media Contact:
Colleen Mycroft
Manager, Intergovernmental and Media Relations
250.896.5325 | cmycroft@victoria.ca