Toronto city councillor James Pasternak, representing York Centre, is urgently advocating for action following the removal of mezuzahs from doorposts at a seniors housing complex in North York. This disturbing incident is being labeled as a hateful act targeting Jewish residents.
Pasternak expressed deep concern as all mezuzahs at 6250 Bathurst Street, a property managed by the Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation (TSHC), were forcibly taken down. He promptly engaged with the building’s rabbi and facilitated contact between residents and Toronto police’s 32 Division.
In a passionate social media post, Pasternak condemned the act as a direct assault on the safety, stability, and dignity of the Jewish seniors living in the complex. He emphasized that there is no justification for singling out individuals based on their Jewish faith, and urged the city of Toronto to confront this intimidation of seniors within their own living spaces.
While the exact number of mezuzahs removed is still being determined, a Toronto police spokesperson revealed that multiple reports have been received regarding the incident at a building near Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue West. Fortunately, no physical injuries have been reported.
The authorities, including the Hate Crime Unit, are actively investigating the matter, as all complaints were filed on Sunday. Updates on the ongoing investigation are expected to be provided soon.
Mezuzahs are symbolic cases typically affixed to the doorframes of Jewish households, containing sacred Hebrew scriptures. The scrolls within these decorative cases, including the Shema prayer, hold significant religious and cultural significance, symbolizing protection and blessings for the occupants.
In a subsequent communication, Councillor Pasternak called upon Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow to publicly denounce the incident and combat the harassment faced by Jewish residents. He reiterated his commitment to collaborating with residents, Toronto Seniors Housing, and law enforcement to ensure the restoration of a safe environment for all.