Limmud Toronto 2020

The Torah commands us no less than 36 times to welcome the stranger. Join JIAS Toronto in discussing the challenges of fulfilling this mitzvah during COVID-19. How do we welcome others at a time when we cannot meet them in person or invite them to our Shabbat table? While there have been less immigrants entering the country since the onset of COVID-19, Canada does continue to welcome newcomers. JIAS Toronto, the only Jewish community organization in Canada with the sole mandate of welcoming and settling immigrants and refugees, continues to see new arrivals – and just as importantly – to serve those who arrives in the year(s), months and even weeks prior to the country’s dramatic lockdown beginning in March. This experience has been overwhelming for all Canadians – and all the more so for immigrants with language, culture and economic barriers who have been shown to have suffered disproportionately from the pandemic. At the same time, new research shows that although Canada relies upon immigration for economic growth (an recovery), the hardships of COVID-19 have negatively impacted Canadians’ attitudes towards immigrants and immigration.   Learn how JIAS Toronto is supporting newcomers and how you can help ensure that our community and society remain committed to diversity & the value of welcoming the stranger.