Canadian Jewish Law Association Launches to Unite Legal Professionals and to Advocate for Justice

[Toronto, Ontario] – [Friday, January 10, 2025] – The Canadian Jewish Law Association, led by
prominent legal professionals from across Canada, proudly announces its official
launch, establishing a vital organization that unites legal professionals across
Canada in the fight for justice, equality, and the eradication of hate. Dedicated to
creating a Canada where antisemitism, discrimination, and all forms of hatred have
no place, the Canadian Jewish Law Association leverages the legal expertise of its
members to advocate for civil rights, champion inclusion, and foster a society
rooted in respect.

“Our mission is clear: to confront and combat antisemitism and all forms of
discrimination in Canada,” said Joseph Neuberger, Association Chair. “We believe
that silence is not an option, and legal professionals have a unique role to play in
dismantling the forces that perpetuate hate and division.”

Through strategic advocacy, educational initiatives on legal measures to combat
antisemitism and hate, and active participation in policy development, the
Canadian Jewish Law Association will combat unprecedented antisemitism and
hatred in our educational institutions, professions and on our streets. By
prioritizing education and fostering respectful dialogue, the organization seeks to
address the complex challenges posed by modern antisemitism and discrimination
in Canada.

The Canadian Jewish Law Association is also guided by a deep commitment to
Zionism and the right of Jews to self-determination in their ancestral homeland. It
recognizes the democratic State of Israel’s right to exist. As recognized by the
International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of
antisemitism, adopted by 43 countries, including Canada after many years of study,
criticism of Israel of the kind levelled against any country is not antisemitic.
However, the demonization of all Zionists and Israelis and the delegitimization of
the very existence of the State of Israel are antisemitic, and must be vigorously
opposed.

“Our work is about more than advocacy; it’s about creating a future where Jewish
communities — and all communities — can thrive free from fear and prejudice,”
said Jeffrey Leon, Association Vice-Chair. “We aim to empower legal professionals to
stand as leaders in this fight, using the law as a powerful tool for change.”

The Canadian Jewish Law Association’s foundational goals include:
– Empowering Jewish Legal Professionals: Providing resources, tools, and
networks to advocate effectively for Jewish communities and marginalized
groups.
– Promoting Civil Rights and Equality: Advancing policies and legal
initiatives that uphold justice and fairness for all Canadians.
– Combating Antisemitism and Hate: Leveraging advocacy and education
to challenge discrimination and dismantle hate.
– Fostering Dialogue: Building bridges through respectful and informed
discussions to remove hatred, and isolate and defeat extremism

Founded on the belief that every individual deserves dignity and opportunity, the
Canadian Jewish Law Association seeks to create a just and inclusive Canada,
where Jewish communities and all Canadians can thrive.
For more information about or to join the Canadian Jewish Law Association,
please visit canadianjewishlawassociation.org or contact us at [email protected].

Officers Elected: 
Chair: Joseph Neuberger (Ontario)
Vice-Chair: Jeffrey Leon (Ontario)
Secretary: Jill Mayer (Ontario)
Treasurer: David Stolow (Quebec)
Directors Elected:
Victor Goldberg (Nova Scotia)
Alexa Abiscott (Ontario)
Leora Shemesh (Ontario)
Honourable Marina S. Paperny (Alberta)
Josh Weinstein (Manitoba)
Melanie Samuels (British Columbia)
Deborah Palter (Ontario)