Winnipeg Police Seek Public Help After Antisemitic Vandalism

The front doors of Winnipeg’s Shaarey Zedek synagogue were vandalized with red swastikas and hateful graffiti on January 2, 2026. This act of vandalism, classified as a suspected hate crime, has raised alarm not only within the Jewish community but across the city, prompting a call for community vigilance against hate.

As of January 8, 2026, much of the graffiti has been removed, but concerns regarding safety and community solidarity remain prevalent. Winnipeg police are urging residents to report any suspicious activity and to stand against hate in all its forms. Inspector Jennifer McKinnon of Winnipeg’s Major Crimes Unit emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “We are imploring the community. We cannot be casual bystanders for this type of incident.”

The vandalism occurred early in the morning, with surveillance footage capturing an unidentified individual approaching the synagogue at approximately 04:30. The suspect painted five swastikas and other messages on the synagogue’s main doors and a wall before discarding a bag from a nearby bridge. This bag was later retrieved by police for examination, though authorities have reported that it was not deemed dangerous.

In the wake of this incident, the Shaarey Zedek congregation received an outpouring of support from various leaders including Manitoba’s premier, the mayor of Winnipeg, the Lieutenant Governor, and representatives from other faith communities. Rabbi Carnie Rose expressed gratitude for the community’s response, noting that attendance at services remained strong despite the vandalism. “People came to show support and solidarity,” he stated, highlighting that over 200 individuals attended the Saturday service following the incident.

Despite the community’s resilience, some Jewish leaders are calling for more substantial action against antisemitism. They are urging the government to enforce existing hate laws and appoint a new special envoy on antisemitism, a position that has been vacant since July 2025. According to Belle Jarniewski, a Holocaust educator and director of Manitoba’s new Institute to Combat Antisemitism, “When threats are made, the laws need to be enforced. People have understood it as permission to go a step further.”

The incident at Shaarey Zedek is not an isolated case. Local Jewish leaders point to a wider pattern of antisemitic activity in Winnipeg, including a recent attack on a Middle Eastern cafe owned by a Canadian of Palestinian descent, which also involved vandalism and intimidation. While police have indicated that they do not believe the two incidents are related, the pattern of hate crimes is alarming for the community.

As the investigation continues, authorities are stepping up patrols around Jewish institutions and working on security plans for upcoming events. Rabbi Rose noted that despite the challenges, the synagogue remains committed to its mission and activities. “We want business to continue. It’s not just about the monetary side; it’s about the Jewish cultural vibrancy,” he stated.

The Jewish Federation of Winnipeg has also expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for community cohesion in the face of rising antisemitism. Local leaders are rallying support and encouraging residents to attend events and gatherings at the synagogue, reinforcing a message of unity and resilience.

In conclusion, the vandalism at Shaarey Zedek synagogue serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community in Winnipeg. As authorities investigate the incident, community leaders are calling for action both from law enforcement and government bodies to ensure that hate crimes are addressed effectively. The collective response from the community indicates a firm commitment to standing against hate and fostering a safe environment for all residents.