Menorah lighting ceremonies in Waterloo Region are going ahead with proactive measures to ensure safety after the violent attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia.
On Sunday, two gunmen opened fire on Sydney’s Bondi Beach, killing 15 people, including a child, in what Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called an act of antisemitic terrorism.
In response, Waterloo regional police are working with local faith leaders to keep local events safe.
“This is not a time to pontificate or hide,” said Rabbi Moshe Goldman in a statement posted to social media. “It is a time to gather in strength and unity, and shine out light at the deepest darkness in its most desperate moments before all darkness is transformed to light.”
Officers noted that they will be taking “enhanced proactive measures” for planned Hanukkah celebrations in the region, including one happening at Cambridge City Hall at 4:30 p.m. on Monday.
“Hate and violence have no place in our communities,” said regional police in a statement on social media.
More lighting ceremonies are set to take place throughout the week, including at Stratford City Hall on Thursday at 5 p.m. and on Sunday at Kitchener City Hall at 5 p.m.
Regional police are asking the public to report any suspicious activity surrounding these events to 911.