Yesterday will be seared in our collective memory. A Shabbat when life in Israel was shattered by murderous evil. A day that commentators are calling Israel’s 9/11.

The days ahead will bring new fears and new pain. The people of Israel will take action to protect their children and bring back our extended family—toddlers and elderly, fathers and mothers, farm workers and kibbutz residents—who have been heinously abducted by Hamas and other terrorists.

When Israelis are hurting, our Toronto Jewish community is hurting. This is our moment to channel our shock, anger, and grief into unity and meaningful action. It begins by gathering as one strong, united community.

UJA is holding an Emergency Rally for the People of Israel on Monday at 7:00 PM at Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge Street)—and we need you there.

Bring your Israeli and Canadian flags. Wear blue and white. Let’s bring together our entire community, allies, and government officials to send an unmistakable message to the broader public. We will mourn, pray, show our support for Israelis, and share the truth about these heinous actions—and why all Canadians should unequivocally stand with the people of Israel.

As we take a public stand, we also take our community’s security seriously. UJA Community Security is working closely with police to ensure robust safeguards, including heightened police presence, professional security guards, and other essential measures. While the situation in Israel has understandably heightened anxieties, this is a time to be strong in exercising our democratic rights—including our right to gather peacefully. We are doing so responsibly, with vigilance and precautions, and with guidance from law enforcement.

Taking action also means providing immediate, practical aid to Israelis—especially in our partner city of Sderot. Tonight, we are issuing an urgent fundraising appeal calling on our community to help meet the extreme needs in Israel at this time of crisis.

Every donation will be directed to our Annual Campaign investments in helping Israelis who are suffering. This includes evacuating civilians from the war zone, emergency financial aid to victims of terrorism, and trauma and mental health services for area residents.