Ottawa, ON – UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), and Canada’s Jewish Federations were deeply saddened to hear the news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has passed away.

For seven decades, the Queen has served as head of state of Canada and our fellow Commonwealth nations with grace, dignity, and quiet strength. Her leadership through some of the most tumultuous moments of modern history has been a source of reassurance, stability, and hope for generations of Canadians. As Jewish Canadians, we are especially grateful to live in a country in which all communities can enjoy the blessings of democracy, freedom, and human rights – and we recognize the role of our constitutional monarchy in the development and preservation of those ideals.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family at this difficult time. May they and all who are mourning today find comfort in her legacy of leadership, and the knowledge that she inspired millions throughout her lifetime.