Hello everyone.

Tonight, at sundown, the Jewish community will mark the first night of Passover.

Family and friends will gather around the Seder table to read from the Haggadah, enjoy symbolic foods like matzah and maror, and drink wine.

And all around the world, Jewish people will remember the story of the Exodus by asking questions and sharing age-old traditions.

Passover encourages us to find a source of hope and perseverance, and to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness.

It reminds us that good will always prevail over evil and that it is important to stand up for our beliefs.

The story of Passover is taken from the Bible, but the issues of hatred and persecution are still very present today.

We have all seen a frightening rise in hate-motivated crimes against the Jewish community—both here in Canada and around the world.

So I want to be clear: anti-Semitism has no place in our country or anywhere else.

It’s up to each and every one of us to call it out and to speak up against hatred in all its forms. 

Because only together can we build a more inclusive and safer world for everyone.

I would like to take this time to highlight the rich heritage and culture that Jewish communities bring to this country.

Every day, Canadians of the Jewish faith make significant contributions to our communities.

And Jewish values, like tikkoun olam, encourage us to take care of one another. We can all be inspired by this.

My friends, on behalf of my family, I wish you a happy Passover.

Chag Pesach Sameach!