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Interfaith event unites community to address Hinduphobia and antisemitism in Canada

The gathering was hosted by Tafsik, a grassroots humanitarian organization combating hostility towards Jewish people.

Rishab Sarswat, CoHNA Canada president at the event. / X/@cohnacanada

In a significant event focused on strengthening intercommunity relations, members of the Hindu and Jewish communities convened for "Building Bridges: Hindus and Jews in Conversation" at the Jewish Community Centre in Toronto on May.21. Hosted by Tafsik, a grassroots humanitarian organization combating antisemitism, and attended by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), the gathering addressed the troubling rise of Hinduphobia and antisemitism in Canada. 

The event highlighted the urgent need for solidarity in fighting these forms of bigotry and discrimination against minorities, CoHNA said in a statement. 

“Hindu philosophy, rooted in the eternal laws of nature, offers profound solutions to contemporary issues. In today’s world, teetering on the brink of self-destruction, Hindu principles of Karma (Deeds), Dharma (Duty), and Sahishnuta (Tolerance) are crucial for achieving inner peace, harmony, and happiness,” said Rishabh Sarswat, CoHNA Canada president.

During the event, Amir Epstein, executive director of Tafsik, underscored the shared cultural bonds between Hindu and Jewish communities, emphasizing the significance of their common experiences. Sarswat shed light on the alarming increase of Hinduphobia in Canada, prompting expressions of concern from many Jewish attendees who were unaware of the challenges faced by Hindu Canadians. 

Epstein highlighted the media's tendency to overlook the numerous hate incidents targeting the Hindu community in recent years, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about such issues.

“As both communities confront the rising tide of hate in Canada, initiatives like these are essential not only for raising awareness but also for laying the foundation for a united response against bigotry and intolerance,” CoHNA said. “This event represented a significant milestone in fostering mutual respect and understanding between Hindu and Jewish communities, setting the stage for an inclusive and harmonious future in Canada.”

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