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There was one theme that ran through nearly every aspect of our work this week: security. Originally, I had intended to write about a specific type of security – food security, the central topic of our FEDtalks speaker, Eli Winkelman – and I will, but not today. Today, I want to update you on several things happening here and around the Jewish world.

First, community security.
Many of you read the media reports that in 2013 John Nuttall and Amanda Korody – who have since been found guilty of plotting to set off homemade bombs at the legislature – planned to target the Jewish community, in addition to a number of other local targets. This is an issue that we have been aware of since their arrest two years ago. We were in communication with community organizations back in 2013 and encouraged them to follow their security protocols. We were in contact with them again this week to provide an update, and we released a statement on our website.

We take threats against the Jewish community very seriously. That said, it’s important to know there is no increased risk to our community at this time.

Our Federation has solid security protocols in place and we follow them whenever there is a security alert. We also have a very good relationship with local police and RCMP, and we are in regular contact with them regarding any community concerns.

As a Federation, we have taken a pro-active approach to community security, including:

• Funding and coordinating security audits at local Jewish community institutions;
  
• Providing grants for them to upgrade their security features, and helping them qualify for matching Federal funds;
  
• Providing continual security training and support, including an intensive security training session this past spring; and
  
• Establishing a new community security committee to help guide our future actions and funding decisions.

Security is an ongoing need in our community – one that requires the kind of stable funding the Federation Annual Campaign provides. So, we will start to fund security through the campaign starting with the 2015 campaign. It’s but one example of how we are adapting to address the changing needs of our community.

Second, security in Israel.
The past two days have brought some truly terrible news about attacks in Israel. This morning we awoke to the absolutely tragic killing of a Palestinian toddler by Jewish extremists in a so called “price-tag” attack. And yesterday there was news of stabbings at the Jerusalem Pride parade. We are not silent when these events happen. You can read the statements here and here that were issued through our advocacy partner, The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs.

It was not lost on us that the Jerusalem Pride parade attack came just days before Vancouver hosts a similar event. Our community needs to be a safe place for everyone. We’re proud that Yad b’Yad - Vancouver’s Jewish LGBTQ Group – is hosting a booth at Pride Festival @ Sunset Beach this weekend, and that our Axis young adults, Moishe House, Hillel and other community groups will be participating with them.

Third, security of Israel.
Before I leave you to your Shabbat preparations, I want to share an important and unique opportunity to engage in a conversation about the Iran Deal at the highest level. On Tuesday morning, August 4th, Jewish Federations of North America will host a live webcast with Prime Minister Netanyahu. You can even submit a question. It is not every day that you have a chance to ask a question of a world leader, so don’t let this pass you by. Register here.

Every week I end this message with a Shabbat shalom. Our Federation is committed to community security because we want to be confident that when we say it we do so knowing that we’ve done everything we can to make sure you have a peaceful Shabbat. And because of this commitment and the hard work that backs it up, I say to you with confidence, Shabbat shalom.

Ezra S. Shanken
CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver