September 2024
Gustavo Rymberg
As we reflect on this past year before starting a new annual campaign, we are reminded of the resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to doing good that defines our community. The Hamilton Jewish Federation, with its century-long legacy, continues to be a beacon of hope and solidarity, even in the face of unprecedented challenges.
In a world more divided than ever—where old threats resurface, and new fears take hold—it can be difficult to focus on the good. But for us, good is not just a word; it is the heart of our mission. It is the guiding principle behind everything we do.
Our community has always stood for what is right. We have supported those in need, fostered a sense of belonging, and offered purpose to those who seek it. And even now, in one of the most difficult years we’ve faced in recent history, we continue to focus on the good we can do together.
But the reality we are facing today is grave. Antisemitism is on the rise, and open hostility toward Jews is becoming increasingly common across Canada. These manifestations of hate are not limited to far corners of society. They have infiltrated our elementary schools, high schools, universities, colleges, unions, and workplaces. It is a troubling reality that cannot be ignored. Words and statements are no longer enough. What we need now is action. We must stand more united, more vigilant, and more determined than ever before.
At the Hamilton Jewish Federation, we understand that our annual campaign is not just about fundraising. It’s about fortifying the very core of our community. It’s about ensuring that we have the resources to provide the security measures for which we now unfortunately must pay. It’s about making our Jewish schools success stories and empowering the next generation of Jewish leaders. It’s about ensuring that our most vulnerable—newcomers, seniors, Holocaust survivors, and those who feel alone or in need of care—receive the support they deserve.
We are not simply reacting to hate; we are proactively educating, engaging, and advocating. This campaign will allow us to offer more debates, more conversations, and more education about the dangers of antisemitism and anti-Zionism. We must be the strongest voice in the room—because if we don’t speak up for ourselves, who will? No one else will advocate for the existence of the State of Israel or for our survivors, students, seniors, and families. That responsibility lies with us.
We ask for your support now, more than ever.
You know the work we are doing, and you understand why increasing your annual contribution is critical. You have already made a difference during last year’s annual campaign, and your continued support will help us reach our goal of $2.5 million—and perhaps even more. These funds are essential to ensuring our community’s safety and strength, to creating a brighter future for our children, and to maintaining the sense of unity that has always been our hallmark.
This community is special. It is resilient. It is strong. And because of that, we will always be here for good. We will stand together, facing the challenges ahead, with the confidence that we will overcome them—just as we have so many times before.
We must be clear: the fight against antisemitism is not just about protecting Jewish people—it is about defending the core values of human rights and democracy. It is a fight we all must join, and it is one that requires vigilance, education, and, above all, action.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to doing the good that is so deeply ingrained in who we are as a Jewish community. But we cannot do it alone. We count on your support to ensure that the Hamilton Jewish community remains strong, vibrant, and united—now and forever.
Thank you for standing with us in this vital work, for supporting our mission, and for being here for good.
