Dozens of mezuzahs torn down at a housing complex for elderly Jews in Toronto

Toronto Police’s Hate Crimes Unit is investigating the theft of 20 mezuzahs attached to the front doorposts of a Jewish seniors’ housing complex.

According to CBC, the complex is home to many Russian-speaking Jews. “Everyone is just shocked. This house is under municipal control. We want our residents to feel safe and secure,” said Toronto city councilor James Pasternak.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow called the incident a vile and outrageous act of anti-Semitism. “This is social housing for the elderly. They have the right to live in safety, without fear of being persecuted for being Jewish,” she said.

The Canadian branch of the Jewish organization B’nai B’rith blamed the authorities in Toronto: “The reason is that they turn a blind eye to the increase in incitement and intimidation of the Jewish community. This gives impudence to those who attack the Jews of Toronto.”

A mezuzah is a parchment with text from Scripture, which in a special case is attached to the doorway of a Jewish home.