Canada marks one year since Hamas attack with vigils, protests and calls for peace amid rising tensions

Ceremonies, community gatherings and demonstrations are taking place across Canada today to mark one year since the Hamas attack on Israel, which triggered the ongoing war in Gaza and deeply affected Jewish, Muslim and Arab communities across the country.

The October 7, 2023 assault killed more than 1,200 Israelis, with 250 others taken hostage, sparking an Israeli military offensive that Gaza health officials say has now left over 41,000 people dead. The conflict’s humanitarian and emotional toll has been felt globally - including in Canada, where families mourn victims on both sides and communities have faced waves of protests, campus encampments and rising hate crimes.

Police in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary and Ottawa have stepped up security around synagogues, mosques and community centres, as authorities anticipate large gatherings and possible counter-protests. Law enforcement agencies say their focus is to ensure public safety and protect both freedom of expression and worship.

Jewish organizations are holding remembrance events nationwide, calling for the safe return of remaining hostages and honouring those killed in the Hamas attack. At the same time, pro-Palestinian groups have planned rallies in several cities - including a large demonstration in Montreal, where organizers under the banner Montreal4Palestine have pledged to show solidarity with Palestinians “fighting for liberation.”

The divisions are also being reflected on university campuses. The groups that led last spring’s McGill University encampment are planning a walkout and march from Concordia to McGill on Monday, renewing demands for universities to divest from companies linked to the Israeli military and end institutional ties with Israeli organizations.

Community leaders across Canada are urging calm and dialogue, warning that the polarization surrounding the conflict is straining social cohesion. Many are calling on the federal government to step up efforts toward a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza while combating hate and misinformation at home.