What Is Happening Here | Canadaland Investigates #5 Why Here?
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Dec 10, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Robert Brim, a retired sociology professor known for his research on anti-Semitism, joins Toronto city councillor James Pasternak to unravel the surge of anti-Jewish sentiment in Canada. They explore various theories, including the role of government leadership, police enforcement failures, and community dynamics. Brim's survey findings reveal surprising demographics related to negative attitudes, while Pasternak highlights the challenges local officials face in protecting Jewish neighborhoods amidst rising tensions.
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Multiple Institutional Causes Combine
- Canada shows multiple institutional failures that interact to worsen anti-Jewish violence.
- Jesse Brown concludes government, police, and societal factors combine to produce the current crisis.
Councillor Describes Backroom Finger-Pointing
- James Pasternak describes a cycle of blame between police, the Attorney General, and the mayor that stalls enforcement.
- He reports officials are afraid to visibly support Jews for fear of political backlash.
De-Escalation Over Enforcement
- Police prioritize de-escalation and keeping the peace over law enforcement during protests.
- That strategy often leaves hate crimes unaddressed and arrests rare or delayed.