Toronto (Rajeev Sharma): Toronto’s Hate Crime Unit is investigating after a series of mezuzahs were forcibly removed from the doors of residents in a North York seniors’ building, an incident that has sparked anger and fear within the community.
The thefts occurred sometime over the weekend at a Toronto Community Housing seniors’ residence in the Westminster area. Residents noticed the missing mezuzahs on Sunday and alerted authorities. Police have not yet established the exact timeframe of the vandalism.
A mezuzah, a small case containing a handwritten prayer scroll, is traditionally mounted on the doorposts of Jewish homes and is considered a deeply personal symbol of faith and identity.
‘Deliberate Targeting,’ Says Councillor
York Centre Councillor James Pasternak said that every mezuzah attached to the units at 6250 Bathurst Street had been removed. He described the act as intentional and distressing for the Jewish seniors who live there, adding that he immediately contacted the local police division and building management.
“There is absolutely no justification for targeting people simply because they are Jewish,” he said. Pasternak stressed that he will continue coordinating with police, residents, and Toronto Seniors Housing to ensure safety and restore confidence in the building.
Pasternak later told reporters he was “shocked and disgusted,” estimating that between 15 and 20 mezuzahs had been torn off overnight. Many of the building’s tenants, he noted, are older Russian-speaking Jews who rely on the residence’s small synagogue. He also emphasized that the mezuzahs had been securely attached, suggesting deliberate effort in the removals.
City Leaders Condemn the Incident
Mayor Olivia Chow sharply denounced the thefts, calling them “outrageous and vile” and describing the act as antisemitic in nature. She said the seniors living in supportive housing “deserve to feel safe and not fear being singled out for their identity.”
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs also condemned the vandalism. The organization highlighted the cultural and spiritual importance of the mezuzah and warned that the incident fits into a wider rise in antisemitic acts across the city. CIJA urged elected officials to move beyond statements and take stronger measures to protect vulnerable Jewish residents.
Investigation Continues; Community Responds
Toronto Police say the investigation remains active and are asking anyone with information to contact investigators or reach out anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
In response to the incident, the Combat Antisemitism Movement is encouraging supporters to join the “#MezuzahChallenge,” urging people to display a mezuzah or post a photo online to show solidarity with the affected seniors and the broader Jewish community.
