Kingston’s Jewish Community Celebrates with Sukkah at City Hall

Members of Kingston’s Jewish community celebrated the return of hostages earlier this week by dismantling their large blue-and-white sukkah outside the historic City Hall in Springer Market Square. This gathering, which coincided with the start of Sukkot on October 7, 2023, was part of an initiative designed to highlight Jewish culture in a prominent location, especially in response to growing pressure from pro-Palestinian groups in the area.

The Kingston Jewish Council, led by Debbie Fitzerman, initiated the “Sukkah in the Square” project two years ago. Fitzerman noted that they wanted to showcase a positive aspect of Jewish life amidst the backdrop of ongoing conflicts and rising antisemitism. The sukkah project has since attracted hundreds of visitors, including non-Jewish locals and tourists, fostering an environment for dialogue and cultural exchange.

Organizers encountered challenges during this year’s event, including a robbery and vandalism that led to the theft of a piece of artwork created by local Holocaust educator Hadassah Danit-O’Reilly. Despite these setbacks, the community remained undeterred, emphasizing the importance of their presence in a public space. Fitzerman stated, “The effort is crucial because it highlights beautiful Jewish customs and culture, while also allowing for discussions about hostages and antisemitism.”

The sukkah welcomed a diverse array of visitors. Local politicians, including Kingston Mayor Bryan Paterson, participated in traditions such as shaking the lulav. Tourists from as far as South Korea and even families from Ottawa engaged with the project, often expressing surprise at the presence of Jews in Kingston. Fitzerman recounted a delightful encounter with a family from Israel who discovered that their hometown was where the etrog was grown.

The decision to erect a sukkah in a public space was not without concern. Fitzerman noted the increase in antisemitism on Kingston’s streets and campuses over the past two years. Consequently, organizers invested in private security to ensure safety during the event. Despite taking precautions, issues arose, including a break-in that led to the theft of food and supplies.

Reflecting on the impact of the project, Fitzerman expressed hope that the “Sukkah in the Square” could serve as a model for other small Jewish communities. She remarked that it not only displays the richness of Jewish tradition but also builds bridges within the community by inviting conversations that extend beyond political narratives.

The “Sukkah in the Square” has evolved into an opportunity for interfaith engagement. This year, discussions about hostages were integrated into the programming, with volunteers displaying photos of hostages in the sukkah. Fitzerman highlighted a particular gathering, modeled after a “Run for Their Lives” event, where the community expressed solidarity and hope for the hostages’ safe return.

As the project continues to grow, Fitzerman sees the potential for more Jewish traditions to be shared publicly. She believes that smaller communities could replicate this initiative, emphasizing the need to proudly express Jewish identity and culture. “What’s the worst that can happen?” she asked, encouraging other communities to follow suit.

The Kingston Jewish community’s efforts to bring visibility to their culture amidst challenging times represents a significant stride towards fostering understanding and dialogue. By situating their traditions in a central location, they aim to reshape perceptions and build connections within the broader community.