Ahead of Hanukkah and its reminder that light triumphs over darkness, we at CHEO are rededicating ourselves to combatting anti-Semitism in all its forms.
Too often, our Jewish neighbours are targets of hate because of their faith. While Jews make up 1% of Canada’s population, the most recent statistics show they are victims of 62% of all reported faith-based hate crimes.
We know that, sadly, Jews of all ages are disproportionately subject to acts and threats of violence, harassment, bullying and discrimination. Jewish kids are not immune, and this can have lasting impacts on their development and self-worth.
CHEO denounces and rejects all forms of hatred. We will always stand up for the rights of all people to live in safety and security, free of intimidation and violence because of who they are. And we are committed - as part of our own journey toward equity, diversity and inclusion - to learning, listening, speaking out and being part of positive change.
To all celebrating Hanukkah, may the coming eight days and nights bring blessings upon your and your family. CHEO is always here for you if you need us.
Chag Sameach.
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About CHEO
Dedicated to the best life for every child and youth, CHEO is a global leader in pediatric health care and research. Based in Ottawa, CHEO includes a hospital, children’s treatment centre, school and research institute, with satellite services located throughout eastern Ontario. CHEO provides excellence in complex pediatric care, research and education. We are committed to partnering with families and the community to provide exceptional care — where, when and how it’s needed. CHEO is a partner of the Kids Come First Health Team, a network of partners in eastern Ontario working to create a high quality, standardized and co-ordinated system for pediatric health care centred around children, youth and their families. Every year, CHEO helps more than 500,000 children and youth from eastern Ontario, western Quebec, Nunavut and northern Ontario.