Why I Joined the Interfaith Bridge

By Leslie Giller

The Interfaith Bridge is a grassroots organization dedicated to fostering unity and combating antisemitism in our community. The organization emerged out of a pressing need for support in the face of the alarming rise in antisemitism, especially in Toronto, immediately following the tragic events of October 7, 2023.

That October, I attended an interfaith gathering jointly hosted by Holy Blossom Temple, Beth Tzedec Synagogue, and Timothy Eaton Memorial Church. At this event, I met several like-minded women—both Jewish and non-Jewish—who all recognized the urgent need to take action against the increasing levels of antisemitism in our city. We began meeting regularly, and from these informal gatherings, The Interfaith Bridge was born.

My motivation for joining The Interfaith Bridge is deeply rooted in Ttikun Olam—the Jewish value of “repairing the world.” I found that by engaging with people of other faiths, I could live out this principle: addressing antisemitism through shared action and dialogue. In a world where religious and cultural divisions often fuel misunderstanding and mistrust, I, like many other Jews, have found meaning and purpose in being part of an interfaith allyship group. Together, people of diverse faiths come to build bridges, foster mutual respect, and work collectively for social justice and peace.

The Interfaith Bridge also offers an opportunity for people who are not Jewish to learn about the history of antisemitism, as well as the struggles and strengths of the Jewish community. Our group creates a sense of belonging for both Jews and our allies. By uniting around a common cause, we are able to forge connections and build relationships grounded in shared values and a collective vision for the future of our city.

Ultimately, being part of an allyship group like The Interfaith Bridge in the face of rising antisemitism is about taking a united stand against hatred and injustice. It is about standing together for what is right and actively working toward a world where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.

In a time when antisemitism is on the rise, being an ally is not only meaningful but necessary in the fight for a more just and inclusive society. The community engagement and events fostered by The Interfaith Bridge provide resources and tools to help individuals and organizations recognize and counter antisemitism. Through awareness, education, and dialogue, we aim to create a unified voice of support and solidarity. By building bridges, we hope to inspire and empower individuals to advocate for policies and practices that support the Jewish community and promote a culture of tolerance, safety, and security for all.

At the heart of all our endeavours is tikkun olam, “repairing the world”, and the commitment to making it a better place for all.

To learn more about The Interfaith Bridge visit: www.interfaithbridge.ca

Listen to what our allies are saying on Instagram about Standing Up Against Antisemitism @theinterfaithbridge

On May 14, 2025, The Interfaith Bridge hosted its second live event in its Then and Now series when more than 800 people from a variety of faiths gathered at St. Paul’s Bloor Street for a powerful evening of dialogue, testimony and unity against rising antisemitism in Canada. Together, we built bridges of understanding and recommitted to standing up against hate in all its forms.

See below for a link to a three-minute highlight reel from this unforgettable night. It captures the urgency of our moment: antisemitism is rising across the country, and each of us has a role to play in speaking up, building connections, and choosing love over hate.

Watch the reel. Share it. Start the conversation.

The Interfaith Bridge – Highlights from Then/Now: A Night to Remember

Together, we can continue to build bridges of respect, compassion and hope.