A society that embraces tolerance for intolerance finds itself in a dangerous paradox. Despite enacting countless laws against “hate,” these measures prove futile in curbing hate-motivated crimes. Canada, for example, boasts more anti-hate legislation than ever before, yet witnesses a disturbing surge in hatred displayed openly on its streets.
The annual Al-Quds Day rally in Toronto, held outside the recently targeted U.S. consulate, serves as a stark illustration of this troubling reality. Promises of further legislation from the federal government ring hollow, especially when coupled with the assertion that such expressions of hatred are “not who we are.” This statement, however, reveals a painful truth: this *is* who we have become.
Existing laws already address hate-fueled offenses like assault, threats, and vandalism, carrying significant penalties. Even lesser infractions – trespassing, obstructing traffic, unauthorized demonstrations – could be utilized to manage public displays of hate. The problem isn’t a lack of legal tools, but a critical failure to consistently and effectively employ them.
The effectiveness of any law hinges on its enforcement. When police hesitate to intervene, courts dismiss charges, or convicted individuals receive lenient sentences or are quickly released on parole, the law becomes meaningless. Simply passing more laws against hatred won’t stem its tide; it’s a superficial solution to a deeply rooted problem.
The responsibility for defining societal tolerance doesn’t fall to law enforcement, but to the government. And for too long, Canadian governments have demonstrated a remarkably high tolerance for intolerance, regardless of the laws enacted or the resources allocated to enforcement. This inaction speaks volumes.
Consider the stark contrast between the government’s response to the Freedom Convoy – deemed unreasonable and a violation of Charter rights by the Federal Court of Appeal – and the comparatively lenient approach to law-breaking by “pro-Palestinian” protesters since the October 7th attacks. This disparity reveals a disturbing pattern.
The unprecedented rise in antisemitism in Canada, reaching levels not seen since the 1930s, isn’t accidental. It’s a direct consequence of a growing tolerance for intolerance and a tacit acceptance, by those in power, that Jews in Canada are permissible targets for hatred, fueled by the actions of the Israeli government.
This double standard is deeply troubling. While hatred directed towards Muslims, stemming from the actions of Iran or Hamas, would be swiftly condemned and addressed, antisemitism is often met with a muted response. This inconsistency underscores a fundamental flaw in our approach to hate.
Once a society allows intolerance to take root, containing it becomes nearly impossible, even with the strongest political will. In Canada, that will is demonstrably lacking. The latest “solution” – hiring security guards for synagogues – feels like a band-aid on a gaping wound, a symbolic gesture that fails to address the core issue.
