Alberta government grants funding to Edmonton, Calgary groups to tackle antisemitism

The Alberta government is pledging funds to two organizations in the province’s big cities to tackle increasing incidents of anti-Jewish hate. Community and Social Services Minister Jason Nixon on Friday announced $200,000 to the Jewish Federations of Edmonton and Calgary “to help combat the alarming rise in antisemitism.” “Both federations play an important role in educating Albertans about Jewish culture and building a vibrant, engaged and connected Jewish community in the province,” a news release said.

“This investment supports the federations’ efforts to fight antisemitism through education and promotion of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.” The government said the money will go toward an Alberta conference on antisemitism, as well as scholarships, educational materials and meetings with government and law enforcement officials. The announcement comes shortly before Holocaust Remembrance Day, which is observed later this month.



B’Nai Brith Canada reported a record 6,219 antisemitic incidents across the country last year, driven in part by the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza following the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks on Israel. The UCP government introduced mandatory Holocaust education as part of its 2023 update to the Alberta school curriculum.

The Edmonton Police Commission is scheduled to receive an update on hate crimes in the city at its April 17 meeting. [email protected] x.

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