In fulfillment of a promise made in June 2002 to a reader in Ireland, disturbed by experiences of anti-Semitism in that country, this e-zine wishes to join in the rising chorus of protests against a recent outbreak of vandalism in Canada, directed against Jewish homes and a Jewish cemetery in Toronto.

A synagogue and schools were also targeted.

Whether in Ireland, Canada, or elsewhere, desecration of cemeteries is an act that deserves the condemnation of everyone. Toppling of gravestones has been a particularly disturbing feature of the events which marred the name of "Toronto the Good" in the month of March.

For a bereaved daughter or son to stand by a parent's grave which has been willfully vandalised is heart wrenching. Pictures on television brought that angst into the homes of Canadians throughout the country.

Leaders in public life decried what had happened. Clerics of all denominations denounced the acts. The Canadian House of Commons passed a unanimous resolution expressing sympathy and abhorrence.

Anti-Semitism in both Canada and Ireland deserves the fullest possible exposure.

An informed public can press authorities in both countries to take stern measures against its adherents.

An informed public can prevail upon teachers to inculcate among students respect for peoples of different cultures, different faiths.

An informed public can spot the first tell-tale signs of anti-Semitism's appearance within a community, before it spreads its message of hate and sponsors the inevitable acts of vandalism against both the living and the dead.

An informed public can help eradicate the shame of anti-Semitism in Canada and in Ireland.

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