Record-breaking 56,000 people attend Toronto Walk With Israel event

On Sunday, 56,000 members of the Jewish community and their allies attended UJA's 56th Walk With Israel in Toronto—the largest turnout yet for the annual event.

Sara Lefton, Chief Development Officer at the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, described the event as "A day where Jews get together with members outside of our community—friends and allies—to stand united, to stand together with a sense of comfort, and also in support of Israel."  

Timothy Egan, Chair of the board of Allies for a Strong Canada, said "Participating in any march is about standing up for a cause and showing those who are standing for that we're with them, and showing the rest of Canadians that you know what? This is an important thing to do."

He continued, "They've been under dreadful assault, and those who are non-Jewish need to stand up and show that we stand with them."

He added: "I hope that Canada's political leaders see what's going on and see how concerned so many people are about it, and our desire for action that will support Israel and support the Jewish community."

Nova festival massacre survivor and Tribe of Nova Foundation co-founder Omri Kohavi said "It's really exciting to be here." He encouraged people to learn about what is really happening in Israel, and said "there is a war against Israel all over the world, and I think we are good people."

He invited people to visit the Nova Exhibition that is currently in Toronto. "It's not only about the tragedy. It's about the community—it's a very strong community, and we want to share the values—our values—with you guys."

Several politicians were also present. Conservative MP and deputy leader Melissa Lantsman said she was walking "for freedom, for democracy, for the rule of law, and to make sure that this country remains a safe country for the Jewish community and all of our allies."

Mayor Olivia Chow was notably absent.

With antisemitic incidents continuing to rise, a common message many participants sent—whether written on their signs or shouted at the anti-Israel protestors law enforcement allowed to flank the road towards the end of the walk—was that they would not be intimidated.

Many in the walk responded to insults and calls for intifada by waving their Israeli and Canadian flags even harder, by singing and dancing, or finishing the "Free free Palestine!" chant by shouting "From Hamas!" right back. Many said the protestors should be ashamed of themselves, and called them cowards for covering their faces.

In a media statement, UJA said funds raised from the event will support "urgent humanitarian relief and long-term recovery efforts in Israel, with a focus on aiding families and communities still rebuilding after the trauma of October 7th. Donations will help UJA’s partners on the ground provide mental health support, aid for terror victims, and critical services for those most affected by the conflict."