Dear Community Members,

Yesterday, local media reported the appearance of graffiti on Wellington Crescent promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories. In specific, the offensive writings – scrawled on benches and sidewalks – claim that Jewish philanthropist George Soros is seeking to make “whites extinct”, a theme that routinely surfaces in antisemitic discourse on the far right. For further details, please see this interview by Federation President Adam Levene.

The security of our community is the top priority of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg. This is why we are liaising with local law enforcement, which is investigating the incident, and monitoring developments closely via the Canadian Jewish community’s very own communal security network, the CIJA lead National Community Security Program (NCSP), for which the Winnipeg Federation is a contributing member.

Our community depends upon Federation to provide leadership, guidance, and an accurate picture of local security conditions. Particularly in light of the horrific recent events in Charlottesville, it is vital to ensure that we avoid inflaming communal anxieties in a manner that is unnecessary or unproductive. After engaging with local law enforcement and our national security partners, I can confirm that we have no information to suggest that this incident reflects an increased threat to the local community at this time.

We will continue working to support law enforcement in its investigation. We will also continue making the case, in media and in our conversations with key officials, that antisemitism has no place in a free and democratic society like ours – and ultimately threatens the well-being of our entire city.

We will keep you apprised of any developments. 

Adam Levene, President