About Us
Allies for a Strong Canada (The Allies) is dedicated to combating the rise of antisemitism in Canada by mobilizing non-Jewish allies from all backgrounds. Established in response to the alarming increase antisemitic incidents across Canada, particularly after the events of October 7, 2023, AFSC’s mission is to engage, educate, and empower Canadians to stand against hatred of Jews and for our values as a country. Our initiative upholds essential Canadian values such as liberalism, pluralism, democracy, and freedom of expression, striving to create an environment where all citizens can live safely and securely.
The Allies aims to mobilize Canadians to stand against antisemitism, fostering a society where every individual can live free from hate and harassment. We are committed to advocating for the visible and safe expression of Jewish identity, supporting Israel’s right to exist, and ensuring that Canada is a society committed to democratic values. Through education, advocacy, and grassroots mobilization, we seek to build a broad coalition that actively works towards a Canada where antisemitism has no foothold, promoting a country where all can live peacefully.
General (Retired) Rick Hillier
Honourary Patron
It is with a sense of honour and duty that I serve as the Honorary Patron of Allies for a Strong Canada (AFSC). Having dedicated my life to the defence of this wonderful nation, I recognize that the fight against hate, particularly antisemitism, is as crucial to our national security as any external threat. This is about standing for the values we must exemplify and the country we want to be. Antisemitism isn’t just a threat against the Jewish community, it’s a threat to our very democracy.
For the better part of a year, we’ve seen a rising tide of violence and hate in Canada against Jewish people who call Canada home. Schools, neighbourhoods, synagogues, community centres and even daycare centres have been targeted by antisemitism.
Antisemitism ultimately undermines the values of equality, justice, and human dignity that form the bedrock of diverse and inclusive societies like Canada’s. Antisemitism is not merely a Jewish issue; it is a Canadian problem that threatens the safety, security, and well-being of everyone of us.
I have proudly served as a Canadian soldier for the majority of my adult life. As a continuation of that service, believe it necessary to make my voice heard about this rising tide of antisemitism and perhaps encourage other Canadians to also declare that this is not acceptable and demand change . I do not want our country to become one where hatred is normalized. Where it becomes something that you see and tolerate every single day.
When non-Jews stand against antisemitism, they send a message that Canada is a country where everyone, regardless of their background or faith, has the right to live free from fear and discrimination.
Defending the Jewish community from antisemitism means defending the principle that no one should be targeted based on their identity. By doing so, we create a stronger, more compassionate society for all.
Together, we can and will make a difference. I look forward to working alongside each of you to ensure that Canada remains a beacon of hope, tolerance and strength that I believe it to be.
Michael Westcott
Chief Executive Officer
In a world where hate seems to find new avenues to express itself, Allies for a Strong Canada stands as a beacon of hope and action. I am profoundly committed to our shared vision of a Canada where antisemitism is not just challenged but eradicated, where every person can freely express their identity without fear.
The establishment of Allies was a response to a call not just for solidarity, but for active participation from all corners of our society. Antisemitism isn’t just a problem for the Jewish community; it’s a societal issue that undermines the very values we hold dear in Canada.
Our approach is twofold: we engage with allies across political, cultural, and professional landscapes to amplify our voice against hate. We also empower individuals at the grassroots level to advocate for change, creating a ripple effect of positive action throughout our nation.
I invite you to join us in this vital effort. Whether you’re a community leader, a student, a professional, or someone who simply believes in a hate-free Canada, your voice matters. Together, we can build a coalition that not only speaks out but also acts decisively against antisemitism.
Thank you for your support, your voice, and your commitment to a stronger Canada.