Ottawa to expand public Hanukkah celebration after shooting in Australia

Ottawa will not cancel, but instead expand, a public Hanukkah celebration scheduled for Sunday, despite a tragic mass shooting in Sydney, Australia, that left at least 15 people dead, including a 12-year-old girl and a rabbi, and injured dozens more.

The shooting occurred early Sunday morning at a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach organized by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Australian authorities described the attack as an act of antisemitic terrorism involving two gunmen. Investigators later located a nearby vehicle believed to contain improvised explosive devices.

Rabbi Chaim Boyarsky of the Chabad Student Network of Ottawa said the attack hit close to home. Among the victims was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, whom he knew personally, and several close friends lost family members. Despite the tragedy, canceling the celebration was never considered.

“The pain is immense, but our determination is stronger. We do not give in to terror,” Boyarsky said. Organizers decided to expand the menorah-lighting ceremony planned for Dec. 14 at Ottawa City Hall, with more food, music, and community participation.

Ahead of the event, organizers contacted Ottawa police and community security groups, who confirmed that additional safety measures would be in place. Following news of the attack, calls from concerned community members began almost immediately.

Boyarsky noted that fear and pressure have been part of daily life for the Jewish community, especially students, for months, ranging from verbal harassment to acts of vandalism and violence.

The Jewish Federation of Ottawa stated that the safety of the community remains its top priority. Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the violence, emphasizing that Canada will not bow to terrorism. Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe added that even during a holiday meant to symbolize light and joy, Jewish communities around the world are facing fear and intimidation.