The past year has been another challenging one for Jewish communities across Canada and around the world. We have seen serious security incidents, foiled plots and a troubling rise in antisemitic rhetoric—too often followed by hateful actions. The recent arrest of three suspects allegedly planning targeted attacks against Jews and women in the Greater Toronto Area underscores the importance of vigilance, preparation and security readiness.
We are grateful for the professionalism and partnership of Canadian law enforcement, whose work has prevented harm and remains essential to community safety. At the same time, the reality reinforces a clear truth—our community must play an active role in its own security.
The Jewish Security Network is established, operational and making a difference. We work every day to strengthen community security through training, coordination, planning and partnership—supporting schools, synagogues, camps, institutions and community events.
Over the past year, JSN has made a significant impact through a wide range of initiatives to strengthen community safety. Among these efforts, JSN has trained over 480 community volunteers, conducted more than 70 comprehensive security risk assessments and audits, and supported 59 institutions and summer camps in upgrading their physical and procedural security. This work is reinforced by JSN’s 24/7 Security Operations Centre, which operates 365 days a year to monitor, coordinate and respond to emerging concerns.
In parallel, JSN works closely and consistently with law enforcement partners to identify, assess and mitigate potential threats and threat actors. This collaboration enables timely information-sharing and coordinated responses, helping reduce risk and enhance the overall safety of the Jewish community. The world has changed and so to must the way we think about community safety. The attack on a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach, Australia, reminds us that security is not a “nice to have.” It must be core to everything we do—fully integrated into our institutions, events and day-to-day decision-making.
Every school, synagogue, camp and community organization should ensure they have:
- Appropriate physical and technological security measures
- Clear access-control and security procedures
- Regular security briefings and routine emergency drill practice for staff, members and congregants
We are here to help you do so.
Trained staff and volunteers from within the community are critical in protecting our spaces. Get trained and get involved. To register for JSN’s Community Watch or Protector training, use the following links - Community Watch Training and Protector Training.
Finally, if you see something, say something—without delay. Trust your instincts and report anything of concern:
- Notify on-site security, police officers, or community security volunteers
- Contact JSN’s 24/7 Security Operations Centre: 437-222-3999
- In an emergency, always call 911 first
Get involved and help us build a safe, resilient and confident Jewish community—one that remains engaged in Jewish life, stands united and steps up to protect what matters most.
Go to www.jsntor.ca to find out more.
Jevon Greenblatt
Chief Executive Officer
Jewish Security Network (JSN) of Greater Toronto
Empowering and Protecting Our Community — Today and Into the Future
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