“We are a very, very profitable margin target of hate-motivated crime,” said Kirzner-Roberts, senior director of the Simon Vienthal Center (FSWC). “In terms of per capita? It’s even more shocking.”
The report released this week showed that Toronto’s hate crime grew by 19% for the third consecutive year in 2024, with religion driving nearly half. Jews are the most common victims, followed by LGBTQ+ and the black community. For many people, statistics are more than just data; they are personal.
“If nothing happened to us, we would know that someone had happened,” Kirzner-Roberts said.
Graffiti, vandalism and the challenge of justice
Most anti-Semitic hate crimes fall into “hoax,” a bland legal term that hides the ugly scandal of scratched magic, cut through the doors of synagogues, tainted cemeteries and slandered schools. Of the 148 such incidents reported last year, only 10 of them led to the charges.
The police report acknowledged: “Many crimes have no witnesses and no forensic evidence.” But Kirzner-Roberts believes the issue is deeper:
- The masked criminal took advantage of the excitement of the criminal who was reluctant to enforce anti-deception laws.
- In Canada, weak prosecutions minimize hate crime rates.
- Political inaction means that repeated criminals have little deterrence.
“It’s not the police that need change, it’s the legislator,” she insisted.
Edge communities
The worst-hit area? 52 Division (north Toronto, home to many Jewish families) and 32 Division (including the archipelago). Hate crimes in public transport, graffiti increased by 88%, and attacks doubled.
However, there is hopeful light. Toronto police worked closely with Jewish groups to develop anti-Semitism training for officers. The FSWC is promoting similar education for transit personnel, hoping to curb attacks on subways and buses.
But Kirzner-Roberts’ plea was wider: wake up.
“I hope these numbers ultimately push leaders, municipal, provincial, federal, and to make it a priority.”
Because behind every statistics is a person. A family. A community wants to know if they will be next.
What’s next?
- The FSWC lobbies for stricter hate crime laws and mask bans in crime.
- Toronto police are expanding outreach activities but highlighting barriers to evidence.
- Advocates urge citizens to report incidents, or even “small” acts of vandalism.
“Silence is no longer an option,” Kirzner-Roberts said.
