Hampstead Mayor Jeremy Levi issued a defiant statement on social media after the Israeli flag flying in front of Hampstead’s Town Hall was set ablaze, overnight, for the second time in less than a week. Declaring that hate would never prevail, the Mayor wrote, “Last night, antisemites tried to strike at our pride by setting fire to the Israeli flag once again at our town hall. They thought hate could frighten us into silence. Instead, they ignited our resolve. Today, we raise a flag twice the size, a banner of defiance, strength, and unbreakable unity.”
The repeated attacks have residents questioning the police, with one resident asking, “it happened twice in three days, where are the increased police patrols? Where is the security?”
Other residents put the blame on anti-Israeli flag residents who went public last week, highlighting the existence of the flag in a national CBC story that was picked up by other media outlets and went viral. The story reported that Hampstead resident Adam Ben David submitted a petition to demand that the Israeli flag be removed from Town Hall, citing that it “…effectively removes each Hampstead citizen’s ability to express their personal stance on Israel.” Ben David had gathered dozens of signatures on his petition. Despite the opposition, the Hampstead Town Council decided to keep the flag flying.
After today’s attack, Levi’s message was clear and uncompromising. “We will never bow. We will never break. We will never be made small. To those who come with hate, know this: every attempt to tear us down only makes us stand taller. Together, we are unshakable. Together, we are louder. Together, we rise as one community that will never be defeated.”
For the second time in less than a week, this morning, town workers hoisted a massive new flag to replace the burnt one. Twice the size of the original, the flag now dominates the front of town hall. Its blue and white stripes and the Star of David are visible from blocks away, sending a message of defiance not only to the vandals but to anyone who thinks intimidation can work.
Police are investigating both burnings. Community leaders warn that the repeat targeting of Israel’s flag reflects a wider wave of anti Jewish sentiment in Montreal, where Jewish institutions have increasingly become the focus of hate.
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