Today, thousands of community members in the GTA are travelling by bus to Ottawa for a peaceful rally in support of the Jewish people at a time of rising antisemitism.

We were shocked that, of more than 70 buses UJA booked, 17 did not show up. Those 17 buses were the responsibility of a particular sub-contracted company. Despite charging in full in advance and confirming its participation, the company did not send a single bus and has declined all communications while refusing to provide any explanation.  

Given the absolute silence of the sub-contractor and with no other explanation, we are driven to the view that this shameful decision is intended to disrupt our peaceful rally out of hatred toward Jews. Just last month, we saw a similar situation take place where antisemitic activists refused to drive Jewish Americans leaving a rally in Washington DC.

What happened today is sickening and outrageous. We will respond aggressively with every legal and public affairs tool at our disposal. UJA is already working with legal counsel and will be proceeding with strong, decisive actions against this company. Hate and discrimination against any community can never be tolerated in Canada.

We have made alternative travel arrangements for those affected. The rally is proceeding as planned, and our voices will be more determined than ever.

We look forward to joining you in Ottawa or, for those tuning in nationally, online. We will email you a link for livestream viewing shortly before the program begins.

Sincerely,

Adam Minsky
President & CEO

UJA Federation of Greater Toronto