Education Essential to Combat Antisemitism in Montreal

A recent opinion piece emphasizes the critical role of education in combating antisemitism in Montreal, particularly in light of a wave of hate crimes targeting Jewish communities. The horrific attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach last year served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by rising antisemitism globally. While various strategies are needed to address this issue, the importance of Holocaust education is highlighted as a means to foster empathy and dismantle hatred.

According to Statistics Canada, in 2024, a staggering 68.5 per cent of police-reported religiously motivated hate crimes were directed at Jews, despite them representing only about one per cent of the Canadian population. Incidents such as gunfire aimed at Jewish schools, vandalism of Holocaust memorials, and firebombing of synagogues reflect a grim reality for many Jewish Canadians.

The question arises: how can society effectively dismantle such extreme hatred? Legislative measures are essential but insufficient on their own. A strong argument is made for the transformative power of Holocaust education, which can significantly change societal attitudes. The Montreal Holocaust Museum aims to educate visitors through the lived experiences of Holocaust survivors, ensuring that the narratives of individuals like Paul Herczeg and Sonia Aronowicz Tencer resonate with learners.

Research supports this connection between Holocaust education and the rejection of hate. A 2020 survey conducted by U.S. Holocaust organizations found that students exposed to Holocaust education are more likely to challenge intolerance and stereotypes. Similarly, a 2018 survey from the Azrieli Foundation demonstrated a clear link between knowledge of the Holocaust and a rejection of neo-Nazi and antisemitic ideologies.

The effectiveness of this educational approach relies on two key factors. First, it is imperative that individuals learn about the Holocaust through the personal testimonies of survivors. Understanding the profound impact of antisemitic beliefs on real lives is more effective than merely recognizing statistics, such as the murder of 6 million Jews. Second, linking historical antisemitism with contemporary forms is essential. It is important to recognize that antisemitism is not confined to the past; it continues to evolve and pose significant challenges today.

Currently, the Montreal Holocaust Museum is developing new workshops focused on contemporary antisemitism, including a program for adults that features testimonies from descendants of Holocaust survivors. These initiatives aim to illustrate the ongoing relevance of these issues, particularly as the museum prepares for its relocation to downtown Montreal in 2027.

To encourage public engagement, the museum is offering free admission every Sunday from January 25 to June 30, 2026. This initiative provides an opportunity for Montreal residents to learn from the Holocaust’s history and its implications for the present.

As radicalization and extremism increasingly threaten democratic values, educational initiatives and community-building efforts are vital. The recent attack in Sydney underscores the urgency of addressing antisemitism. By channeling the fear and outrage sparked by such events into constructive action, communities can work to dismantle division and hatred.

Sarah Fogg, the head of marketing, communications, and public relations at the Montreal Holocaust Museum, emphasizes the need for collective action. By fostering understanding and empathy through education, the goal is to create a more inclusive society for all.