When I first encountered Francisco Gil-White’s work, I was struck by how deeply it resonated with my concerns about portraying Jews and Israel in historical and contemporary contexts. His insights challenge some of the narratives we often take for granted, encouraging us to think critically about the complex forces shaping perceptions of history and the present day.
Contributions of Jews to Western Civilization
In discussing the Jewish contribution to Western civilization, Gil-White highlights how Jewish thought, alongside other cultural and intellectual traditions, influenced the development of values like justice, equality, and compassion, shaping aspects of the moral fabric many hold dear today.
Shaping Our Models of Reality
Gil-White emphasizes the media’s critical role in shaping our perceptions of the world. His exploration of how false scientific theories, such as eugenics, influenced Nazi ideology serves as a reminder of how easily dangerous ideas can take root when presented as ‘truth.’ This encourages us to consider how frequently we may be swayed by outdated or biased perspectives while acknowledging that media narratives influence all perspectives in any conflict or societal discussion.
The Impact of Russian Propaganda
Learning about the origins of The Protocols of the Elders of Zion and its role in spreading antisemitism worldwide was eye-opening. Understanding the harm caused by this fabricated document stresses the destructive power of propaganda and reinforces the importance of questioning the sources of information we consume.
Historical Ties and Propaganda
Gil-White’s examination of the connections between the Nazis and the Arab world sheds light on a frequently overlooked aspect of history. His analysis of propaganda is especially relevant today, given the persistence of stereotypes and myths about various communities, including the idea of Jewish control of media and big business. It’s a reminder that staying informed and thinking critically is more important than ever, particularly when misinformation spreads so quickly.
Challenging Authoritarianism and Divisive Ideologies
When discussing authoritarianism, radicalism, and divisive ideologies, it’s evident that these forces can significantly impact societies. Gil-White’s analysis suggests that authoritarian regimes have, at times, employed antisemitic rhetoric to undermine democratic values. He encourages confronting harmful stereotypes, particularly when tied to divisive ideologies.
Gil-White highlights the growing support for Hamas and the Palestinian cause as an area that deserves careful consideration. He suggests that a more nuanced understanding of the political and humanitarian dynamics of the Israeli-Hamas conflict is important. He says certain academic perspectives and radical ideologies have contributed to this shift.
Gil-White’s message encourages critical inquiry, challenging assumptions, and fostering unity rather than division. This conversation goes beyond politics; it’s about the world we want to create and the values we aim to uphold.
Dismantling Stereotypes
Gil-White’s efforts to dismantle negative stereotypes about Jews and advocate for their protection remind us that prejudice, in any form, is a threat to social harmony. His work encourages us to be more vocal in our support for Jewish communities and Israel, particularly in light of ongoing threats from groups like Hamas, Iran, and Hezbollah. At the same time, it’s crucial to extend this advocacy to all groups that face discrimination and stereotyping, recognizing that combating prejudice is a universal endeavour.
And why is this important for all of us?
A Shine A Light Organization video underlines the importance of fighting against antisemitism. But beyond antisemitism, the broader lesson is the need to challenge all forms of misinformation and prejudice. Whether it’s addressing false narratives about Jews, other minorities, or any marginalized community, staying informed and critically assessing the information we receive is essential for building a more just and compassionate world.
Since the events of October 7, 2023, the conflict between Israel and Hamas has significantly impacted Israelis, Jewish communities, and supporters worldwide, including myself. The attack resulted in over 200 individuals being taken hostage, creating a ripple effect that has shattered families and left communities grappling with fear and uncertainty. Reflecting on these past five months, I am reminded of my firsthand experiences in Israel, where I witnessed remarkable strength and advocacy.
Global Community Efforts
The breach along the Gaza border exposed vulnerabilities many never imagined. Yet, amidst this tragedy, we have seen acts of courage from various communities. Currently, over 10,000 seriously injured individuals are receiving treatment in Israeli hospitals, and the crisis has mobilized 300,000 reserve soldiers. Ordinary Israelis evacuated more than 200,000 families while facing threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Syria. Their determination is a powerful reminder of communities coming together during difficult times.
This spirit of solidarity was palpable at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on November 14, where I joined 200,000 people standing against violence and antisemitism in support of Israel. The gathering exemplified a collective resolve, affirming a commitment to opposing violence. You can watch the rally in full detail here.
Similarly, in Montreal, I saw pro-Israel students from Concordia organizing gatherings to voice their opposition to violence against Israel. At McGill, Julia Langleben shared her experiences of facing intimidation for supporting Israel, revealing the challenges faced within our community. The Montreal Gazette covered this event in detail, highlighting the varied responses that contribute to a larger narrative of resilience.
In January, I participated in the Montreal Federation Mission of Witness to Israel. Visiting places like the kibbutz of Nir Oz, residents shared their harrowing experiences during the October 7 attack, recounting the fear and uncertainty that engulfed their community. In Sderot, we viewed footage of the invasion, revealing the chaos and devastation that unfolded. Witnessing this left a profound impact on all of us, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Despite the tragedy, inspiring stories of hope and resilience emerged, reminding us of the strength of the human spirit. We also met with leaders like the mayor of Beer Sheva, who is dedicated to overseeing the welfare of evacuated citizens, working tirelessly to support those affected by the conflict.
Notably, the Jewish community raised over $60 million in just the first month of the conflict, eventually surpassing a billion dollars in contributions. This response reflects a commitment to rebuilding and supporting one another during these challenging times.
Spiritual Resilience
In addition to community efforts, our spiritual practices have become a vital source of strength. Our rabbis encourage us to embrace acts of kindness, prayer, reciting psalms, and participating in communal gatherings. These activities help us cope and reinforce our connections, reminding us of the shared humanity that binds us in adversity. I find solace in these communal practices, which provide a framework for healing and hope.
The Hostages: A Continuing Ordeal
As we reflect on our collective strength, we must also confront the ongoing plight of the hostages. Over 200 individuals remain captive, with families working tirelessly for their release and amplifying their voices. In Tel Aviv, a digital clock marks the days since their abduction—now exceeding 150. Families have found solace in a dedicated office building, collaborating to raise awareness and support each other.
In Montreal, demonstrations advocating for the release of hostages held by Hamas have unfolded at various locations, including the offices of the Red Cross, City Hall, and Place des Arts. The sense of urgency is palpable, with community members uniting to demand action.
On December 4, I joined thousands in Ottawa, standing in support of Israel and demanding the release of hostages. This event showcased a powerful blend of voices from diverse communities—politicians, community leaders, and families—coming together with a shared purpose.
Honouring Fallen Soldiers
As the conflict continues, the toll on soldiers is devastating. The IDF has established a website to honour those lost in battle, with 139 soldiers having fallen since the ground offensive began. Each life lost is not just a statistic; it serves as a profound reminder of the cost of war and the sacrifices made by those defending Israel.
In Jewish tradition, every life is cherished, and the loss of even one person resonates deeply within the community. Among those who have fallen are Lt. Shai Ayeli, 21, a cadet in Israel’s officers’ training school from Ashkelon, and Sgt. First Class (res.) Tal Shua, 31, from Beersheba, who served in the Combat Engineering Corps. Their stories and countless others reflect the shared grief and resilience that bind Jewish communities during these challenging times. Each story inspires us to honour their memory through our actions and advocacy.
A Call for Peace
As we navigate these challenging times, we must remember that peace is our ultimate goal. Each of us has a role in fostering understanding, advocating for justice, and working towards liberating those held captive. I urge you to get involved—whether through local advocacy groups, supporting humanitarian efforts, or participating in community discussions. Together, we can amplify our voices and work toward a peaceful future for Israel and all affected by the conflict.
May we witness the liberation of those held captive and the realization of everlasting peace. Hashta b’agala oo’b’zman kariv—May it happen speedily and soon, in our time.
My trip to Israel in October unfolded in ways I could never have anticipated. What began as a joyful celebration quickly became a testament to the complex realities facing the Jewish community during the Simchat Torah festival—a time symbolizing renewal and hope as we complete the annual Torah readings and embark on a new cycle.
On October 7, I attended my nephew Rabbi Yair Silverman’s synagogue to celebrate Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. This day marks the culmination of the Rosh Hashanah-Yom Kippur-Sukkot season, celebrating the Torah and its teachings. The joy was palpable as we completed the readings of The Five Books of Moses and began the story of Genesis, symbolizing the world’s creation anew.
Before the service began, Rabbi Silverman shared the unsettling news that Israel was under attack. He offered everyone the option to leave for safety; however, we chose to stay and continue with the service. The day combined extraordinary joy with a profound sense of resolve as we gathered again at 6 p.m. for the scheduled talk and closing service.
As the evening progressed, the gravity of the situation became clearer—Israel was engaged in conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Rabbi Silverman received a call from a colleague in Tel Aviv, sharing that a couple planning to marry the next day in Zichron Yaakov insisted on proceeding with their wedding. Inspired by the rabbinic teaching to not delay joyous occasions even in adversity, their decision underscored our community’s ability to find light amid darkness.
A Joyous Wedding Amidst Adversity
Rabbi Silverman and our congregation organized a beautiful wedding for the young couple the following day. Despite the conflict, the bride’s family and friends gathered at our small synagogue, and our community, spanning generations, joined in the celebration. As is customary at Jewish weddings, even strangers were welcomed to share joy. I was fortunate to capture these moments on video, and the family graciously allowed me to share these cherished memories.
Return to Jerusalem and Changing Realities
After the wedding celebration, reality set in as I returned to my Jerusalem apartment. The usually ninety-minute drive from Zichron Yaakov felt different this time. My phone buzzed continuously with updates from various WhatsApp groups, revealing rapidly changing circumstances. Discussions ranged from cancellations to preparations for what lay ahead. My pilates group was already planning the next class, striving to maintain normalcy amidst the chaos.
I had tickets for an eagerly awaited concert by Ishay Ribo, whose soulful interpretations of biblical texts resonate deeply with many, including me. Scheduled for October 8 at Jerusalem’s Binyanei HaUma, the concert was cancelled, along with many other events. While I felt disappointed, watching one of Ribo’s previous performances on YouTube brought some comfort, especially when he sang “Modeh Ani,” a prayer of gratitude for the new day.
Preparation and Community Response
Back in Jerusalem, we received government instructions to prepare for uncertain times ahead, including stocking up on water, food, flashlights, and transistor radios for our bomb shelters. My friend Sarah Kraft and I went to the mall to gather supplies. We faced an unexpected challenge when we found that transistor radios were in short supply, but a nearby cell phone shop had the last two radios available.
The sense of community was evident everywhere. People across Israel united to ensure that soldiers and civilians had essential resources. Some collected protective gear and ammunition, while others prepared meals for the 300,000 reservists called up on short notice. There was also abundant spiritual support, with groups organizing communal singing, dancing, and Torah classes, both in-person and online. “Tzitzit,” symbolic fringed garments, were crafted and offered to any soldier who wanted them, symbolizing a meaningful connection to our shared faith.
In my Jerusalem residence, we are fortunate to have a bomb shelter. However, Sarah, who lives in a building without one, faced a tough decision. We had to plan for an uncertain future. Despite having a pre-scheduled flight back to Montreal on October 12, all international flights from Tel Aviv were cancelled except those operated by El Al. After consulting my travel agent, I purchased an El Al ticket to Zurich, hoping Air Canada would honour my original ticket to Montreal. Before leaving, I entrusted Sarah with the keys to my apartment to access the shelter if needed.
Returning to Montreal
Returning to Montreal felt surreal. I was deeply grateful to be invited to my cousins’ home for dinner on Friday night, a comforting ritual that grounded me after such an intense week. I attended Shabbat services at my usual synagogue with Rabbi Poupko the following morning. The familiarity of the service was a balm to my soul, although it included an additional prayer for hostages and a moving rendition of Hatikvah, Israel’s national anthem. The words of Hatikvah, meaning “The Hope,” resonated with our ancient yearning for freedom and sovereignty in our homeland.
Reuniting with my community brought profound relief and joy. We shared our experiences and the challenges we faced since the conflict began. Many in our tight-knit community have family and friends in Israel, and some have connections to those who have tragically lost their lives.
That night, we began a new tradition—gathering weekly for an additional prayer service to recite Psalms/Tehillim. This cherished Jewish tradition provides comfort and strength during difficult times, and our community has embraced it wholeheartedly. We listen to comforting words from our rabbis and recite our designated psalms together.
“On that dark Shabbat of Simchat Torah, when our son went to war, I was overwhelmed with fear and sorrow. With no other way to cope, I cried and recited Tehillim from beginning to end until my tears dried. The Psalms echoed my anguish, giving voice to my fears. Just as Jews have prayed in times of distress throughout history, these prayers continue to speak to us today, guiding us towards redemption.”¹
Our rabbis and community leaders remind us of the importance of participating in meaningful actions through military service, support from home, or dedicated prayer. They encourage us to deepen our commitment to mitzvot, righteous actions, and sincere prayer.
Recently, rabbis in Israel called for a three-day communal fast inspired by the story of Queen Esther during Purim. This fast recalls a pivotal moment when Haman threatened the Jewish community in Shushan, now part of Iran. Before her crucial meeting with King Ahashverosh, Esther asked her people to join her in fasting for three days to seek guidance and support. This collective act highlights the strength found in community unity during challenging times.
On Sunday, October 15, we observed Rosh Chodesh, marking the start of a new month. A few years ago, women in Montreal began a unique tradition of holding an all-female Rosh Chodesh service. Whenever I’m in Montreal, I prioritize attending this gathering. This particular service was especially meaningful as we celebrated the Bat Mitzvah of a young girl turning 12—a significant milestone in Jewish life. Witnessing her recite the Torah portion with confidence was both inspiring and emotional. The celebration involved collaboration among her classmates, friends, and family, making it a memorable occasion.
How the Jewish Community Responds
Throughout history, the Jewish community has shown remarkable resilience and solidarity in adversity. In Montreal, the Federation CJA leads efforts to support those in need with an annual fundraising campaign that unites the community. This year, our focus shifted to raising urgent funds for the ongoing war effort, bringing us together in unprecedented ways.
Last week, I attended a fundraising concert featuring Montreal’s beloved Jewish entertainers, including Milena Kartowski’s breathtaking rendition of “Stand by Me,” which left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Our enduring traditions, commitment to Torah study, and alignment with Torah principles have been our foundation through prosperous and challenging times. This consistency in Jewish practice is crucial as we support Israel in its existential struggle for survival. Whether within or outside Israel, we are united in our pursuit of the common good, striving for the recovery of our captives and the elimination of threats to ensure our people’s safety.
A Prayer for Peace and Hope
Miracles happen when we confront evil with unwavering resolve. As individuals and as a community, we are called upon to contribute to the greater good. We pray earnestly for this day to come soon, swiftly, and in our lifetime.
Hazan Mutlu of Central Synagogue in NYC has recorded a prayer that resonates with those facing adversity, wherever they may be—on land or at sea:
“May the One who blessed our ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, bless and protect all who strive for peace and security in Israel and beyond. May the Almighty grant healing, strength, and comfort as we stand together in solidarity.”
In this spirit, we affirm the message of Am Yisrael Chai—the people of Israel live.
