Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
STAND WITH US: SOLIDARITY GATHERING AGAINST ANTISEMITISM
Asper Jewish Community Campus
Monday, October 7, 2024
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Friends and fellow Manitobans, I am proud to stand with you here this evening, on this solemn anniversary.
As Lieutenant Governor, I acknowledge and honour that we are gathered on Treaty One land and on the heartland of the Red River Metis and that this province is located on the treaty territories and ancestral lands of the Anishinaabe, Anishininew (ANISH-IN-INEW), Cree, Dakota, Dene and Nehetho (NE-HET-HO) Nation. And I acknowledge that northern Manitoba includes lands that were and are the ancestral lands of the Inuit.
As Manitobans, we respect the spirit and intent of treaties and treaty making and remain committed to working in partnership with First Nations, Metis and Inuit people in the spirit of truth, reconciliation and collaboration.
We gather today to remember the unspeakable tragedy that was unleashed on this date last year, and to support the families mourning innocent lives lost or praying for the safe return of those who are still held hostage.
We gather to take a stand against the rising tide of antisemitism – which predated last October 7 by many years.
Around the world and right here in Canada – we have witnessed increased threats and acts of violence against Jewish community centres, schools, synagogues and Jewish-owned businesses.
Now more than ever, as we come together in observance of the High Holidays, we must remember who we are, and reaffirm our commitment to community, and to our faith.
With passions and global tensions high, it is imperative that we stand united, citizens of the world, regardless of religion or race, against all forms of racism and scapegoating and collective blame. On this day we stand against antisemitism, just as we stand against all other forms of racism and intolerance.
Let us work for peace and understanding and let us never forget.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich, and Shalom