As antisemitism on transit skyrockets, TTC begs TPS chief for help

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Toronto’s explosion of antisemitism prompted an appeal for help from the head of Toronto’s transit system.

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In a letter from interim TTC CEO Greg Percy to Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw, Percy said staff are dealing with a worrying rise in hateful graffiti across the transit system targeting Jewish Torontonians.

“We have noticed an exceptionally high concentration of these incidents on our subway trains at terminal stations and along surface routes like College, University and Spadina,” Percy wrote in his letter.

“Hundreds of customers have expressed frustration about the defacement of local stop poles, shelters and vehicles. We need your help to address these hotspots and take preventative action.”

Percy also offered to share data with the police hate crimes unit.

In response to the Hamas terror attacks of Oct. 7, 2023 that saw hundreds of Palestinians storm into Israel to murder, kidnap and sexually assault innocent Israeli men, women and children, anti-Israel activists in Toronto have conducted a campaign of terror of their own — leading hateful rallies under the guise of “Palestinian liberation,” often targeting Jewish neighbourhoods.

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In an interview with the Toronto Sun, Ward 6 York Centre Councillor James Pasternak said Toronto’s skyrocketing antisemitism problem is concerning.

“We see the spread of hate in our city, this should be setting off alarm bells,” he said, expressing appreciation to Percy for his letter.

“Everyone should be alarmed about this because it’s not just antisemitism, it incites hate of all kinds.”

Toronto’s hate problem, Pasternak added, is being noticed around the world.

“This whole escapade, these hate rallies and all of the hate in our city, is damaging our worldwide reputation as a safe place to live, invest, to raise a family and host international events,” he said.

“This is extremely serious.”

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In a statement, TTC chair Jamaal Myers said the transit system has “zero tolerance” for hateful graffiti.

“The TTC and the Toronto Police Service (TPS) have a longstanding history of working together to prevent and report hate speech and hate-related crimes,” he said.

B’nai Brith Canada’s Richard Robertson told the Sun that these acts aren’t just vandalism but are direct attacks against the city’s Jewish community. 

”Antisemitic incidents have reached unprecedented levels in Canada.” he said.

“We thank TTC CEO Greg Percy for taking a decisive stand by addressing this issue directly with Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw. Mr. Percy’s leadership and commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of all TTC riders are deeply appreciated. Now, it’s time for action — swift and resolute.”

— With files from Joe Warmington

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X: @bryanpassifiume

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