Nate Leipciger, a 98-year-old Holocaust survivor living in Toronto, remains undeterred by antisemitic protesters planning to disrupt next Saturday's Walk for Israel. Having survived Auschwitz's gas chamber as a 15-year-old, he is not intimidated by current Jew-hating crowds.
Leipciger's Determination
Leipciger stated that he will join 50,000 other members of Toronto's Jewish community on June 7. He emphasized that his Auschwitz tattoo, number 133628, represents life and truth. He recalled how Nazi hatred did not end with the Holocaust and noted that antisemitic incidents continue to occur openly.
Community Gathering
Leipciger spoke ahead of a special Shabbat event at The Collective Makom, a community center that has been fighting antisemitism since 2023. The event honored Holocaust survivors, including Renate Krakauer, Gershon Willinger, Sol Nayman, and Alis Zohar, as well as Righteous Among the Nations honorees.
Current Antisemitic Climate
Leipciger expressed concern about the open display of Jew hatred in 2026, urging the community to be proud and not hide. He drew parallels to 1938 Poland, where Jews were barred from certain stores and facilities. He also recalled signs in Canada reading 'No Jews or dogs' upon his arrival in 1948.
Threats to Walk for Israel
Social media posts have called for counter-protests against the Walk for Israel, with some using derogatory names for Israel. Leipciger criticized Canadian leaders and law enforcement for not addressing such antisemitism, noting that Jewish events are often targeted while other religious gatherings are respected.
Incident at Tim Hortons
A recent incident captured by Rebel News showed Toronto Police escorting anti-Israel protesters into a Tim Hortons while blocking Jewish residents from entering. Leipciger compared this to discrimination he faced in the past.
Call for Political Support
Leipciger urged Mayor Olivia Chow, Premier Doug Ford, and Prime Minister Mark Carney to attend the Walk for Israel to show solidarity. He stressed that speaking out is essential in a world where haters are protected and Jews are marginalized.
Despite any obstacles, Leipciger affirmed his presence at the walk, stating that no one should stand for such discrimination.
