Jewish community shaken by gunfire outside synagogue
Summary
CBC’s The Current reports on a shooting near the Sons of Jacob synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, during Yom Kippur services. Norm Wetham, the synagogue president, recounts the terrifying moments as congregants hid from gunfire exchanged between a suspect and a police officer. The episode explores the broader context of rising antisemitic violence in Canada, with Wetham criticizing the failure of the civic compact and discussing the necessity of paid police security for Jewish communities.
Topics discussed
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Show introduction
Overview of Belleville synagogue shooting
Police statement on safety and antisemitism
Context of recent antisemitic violence in Canada
Interview intro: Norm Wetham's initial reaction
Reflection on the police officer's intervention
Timeline: Arrival and initial gunshots
Timeline: Hiding in the sanctuary
Bullets hitting windows and memorial board
Shooting stops and police presence observed
Discussion on community safety and police presence
Routine security measures at synagogues
Critique of Canada's civic compact for Jewish Canadians
Cost of security and changing public mindset
Personal anecdotes of fear and concealment
Commitment to resume services and close
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