Statement by Minister Guilbeault on Yom Kippur

The Government of Canada issues a statement to mark Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement

OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 1, 2025 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, made the following statement:

"As the sun sets tonight, Jewish communities across Canada and around the world will observe the beginning of Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement—the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. As one of the High Holidays, it is a time when communities and loved ones come together for 25 hours of prayer, introspection and fasting. It's a day to reflect, to heal, and to hope; a time when Jewish families and friends symbolically make a new start in the year ahead, seeking forgiveness and embracing renewal.

On this Yom Kippur, as Jewish communities gather in reflection and prayer, we must confront the enduring pain of antisemitism—a hatred that has persisted across generations and continues to threaten Jewish communities here in Canada. Antisemitism is not just a Jewish issue; it is a societal wound that affects us all. May this day inspire us with the courage to speak out, the solidarity to act, and the resolve to build a future free from hate.

Our federal government reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that all Jewish people in this country are able to practise their religion and celebrate their culture freely and safely, while working to build a future rooted in the values of kindness, compassion, and openness.

I would like to extend my best wishes to everyone in Canada observing Yom Kippur.

G'mar chatima tova ! "

SOURCE Canadian Heritage

For more information (media only), please contact: Hermine Landry, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, [email protected]; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, [email protected]