Daily Podcasts Video Research

The CJN Daily with Ellin Bessner

Newsmaker conversations from The Canadian Jewish News, hosted by Ellin Bessner, a veteran broadcaster, writer and journalist.
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12 Feb
Toronto’s school board votes on a new antisemitism report today. Here’s what’s at stake
The Toronto District School Board's new report on antisemitism is prompting mixed reactions from the Jewish community, with some appreciating the inclusion of Jewish concerns in diversity efforts while others criticize the continued focus on identity politics. The report proposes 32 recommendations, including recognizing anti-Zionism as a form of antisemitism and hiring more Jewish professionals, but some feel it doesn't adequately address the increasing antisemitism in schools, exacerbated since October 2023.
11 Feb
This Ontario town had a swastika burned into a soccer field. Now residents want to ban the symbol nationwide
Residents of Whitby, Ontario, are reeling from multiple recent incidents involving Nazi swastikas, prompting the town council to request that the federal government ban the symbol nationwide. In response to these antisemitic incidents, the town has also pledged to improve protocols for addressing hate symbols, inspiring neighboring municipalities to consider similar measures.
10 Feb
An interview with Karina Gould, who wants to be Canada’s first Jewish prime minister
Karina Gould, Canada's youngest female cabinet minister, discusses her campaign to become the first Jewish prime minister by focusing on pivotal issues including Israel relations, the rise of antisemitism, and the Liberal Party's identity crisis. In the interview, she emphasizes her Jewish heritage and outlines her policy priorities as she navigates the challenges of political leadership.
6 Feb
Tariff war with U.S. could raise kosher food prices 50 to 60 percent in Canada: importer
Canada's largest kosher food importer, Altra Foods, faces potential price hikes of 50 to 60% due to a looming Canadian-imposed 25% import tariff on U.S. products amidst the ongoing trade war. Organizations such as COR, MK, and CIJA are advocating for exemptions to protect kosher consumers, especially with Passover approaching.
4 Feb
This Canadian scientist just won another award for helping create canola oil. Trump’s pick for health czar says it’s poisoning Americans
Professor Michael Eskin, a renowned food scientist, defends the health benefits of canola oil amidst Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s claims that seed oils are toxic. Despite sharing some criticism of health authorities with RFK Jr., Eskin argues for the safety and economic importance of Canada's significant canola oil industry.
3 Feb
Meet the man who’s cleaning up antisemitic graffiti on the streets of Winnipeg—all by himself
Avrom Charach, a Jewish community leader in Winnipeg, has independently removed over 100 pieces of antisemitic graffiti since October 7, amid a surge in hate crimes in the city. The podcast discusses Charach's motivation and actions, underscoring his commitment to tikkun olam, and details how he manages the graffiti removal personally.
30 Jan
CIJA's new leader wants you to know that Jew hatred threatens ‘the promise of Canada’
Noah Shack, the interim CEO of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), discusses combating rising antisemitism in Canada and stresses the need for Jewish unity. Shack asserts that while maintaining political neutrality, CIJA aims to address community safety and government policies related to Israel and Jewish affairs.
28 Jan
Canadians describe visiting Auschwitz on the 80th anniversary of its liberation
Canadian politicians and Holocaust survivors commemorated the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation, highlighting the continuing fight against antisemitism and promoting Holocaust education in Canada. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's visit to Poland was juxtaposed with domestic political rhetoric, as leadership figures critiqued each other's efforts regarding antisemitism and support for Israel.
27 Jan
‘The Holocaust is always inside you’: Pinchas Gutter and Mariette Doduck, new Order of Canada winners, won’t stop educating
Pinchas Gutter and Mariette Doduck, both Holocaust survivors, discuss their surprise and gratitude at being awarded the Order of Canada, reflecting on their lifelong dedication to Holocaust education. They emphasize the urgency of their mission to educate against antisemitism, especially following recent events on October 7th, while expressing hopes for a future without such hatred for their descendants.
22 Jan
Find out why this Canadian city’s Jewish Federation just joined an American security network
Hamilton’s Jewish Federation joined the U.S.-based Secure Community Network for better security against antisemitic threats, leveraging American expertise and resources. This partnership marks a significant step in proactive measures for smaller Jewish communities in Canada, addressing challenges such as local antisemitic incidents and political tensions.
20 Jan
Canadian families of freed hostages relieved but lament how long it has taken
The episode delves into the relief and lingering traumas experienced by Canadian families following the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas. Survivors' accounts shed light on the emotional and psychological challenges faced by former hostages and their families as they attempt to reintegrate into normal life.
16 Jan
How Israel is preparing to get the hostages back beginning Sunday
As the Israeli government prepares for a new hostage release deal with Hamas, there is a national division on its implications, with some seeing it as necessary and others as a capitulation. Vivian Bercovici offers an on-the-ground perspective, highlighting Israel's dilemma of honoring its commitment to rescue its citizens despite potential threats from released prisoners.
14 Jan
Pending hostage release deal will be 'excruciating and painful' for everyone, says Israeli Ambassador to Canada
The episode addresses the complex and emotionally taxing negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a potential ceasefire and exchange of hostages, highlighting the challenges faced by Iddo Moed, Israeli Ambassador to Canada, in balancing diplomatic responsibilities and emotional ties. Moed also discusses combating rising antisemitism in Canada, including efforts to stop events promoting extremist ideologies and the controversial employment of Hassan Diab, a convicted terrorist, at a Canadian university.
13 Jan
We walked through the Royal Ontario Museum’s new Auschwitz exhibit. Hear what’s inside
The Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto is hosting "Auschwitz: Not Long Ago. Not Far Away," which poignantly aligns with contemporary global events and the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation. Curators have intentionally allowed historical evidence to speak for itself, engaging visitors' critical thinking about Holocaust history and current antisemitic challenges.
9 Jan
Honourable Menschen remembers an enthusiastic eater, a nonagenarian DJ, the Wayne Gretzky of vasectomies, a disability rights fundraiser, and The CJN’s ex-president
The episode pays tribute to five notable Canadian figures who recently passed away, highlighting their unique contributions to Jewish and broader Canadian society. From Donald Carr's legal and community leadership to Dr. Ron Weiss's medical innovations, the episode celebrates their enduring legacies.
7 Jan
How Jewish issues affected Justin Trudeau’s loss of support—and ultimate resignation
Anthony Housefather discusses his call for Justin Trudeau's resignation amid divisions within the Liberal Party over Jewish issues and foreign policy concerning Israel. The episode explores the implications of Trudeau's departure for the Canadian Jewish community and the diverse political reactions, emphasizing both Liberal and Conservative perspectives.
6 Jan
Judy Feld Carr, secret rescuer of Syria’s last Jews, hails the end of Assad’s regime
Judy Feld Carr secretively rescued over 3,300 Jews from Syria under the Assad regimes, a mission she now feels more comfortable discussing following the regime's recent fall. The episode explores the harsh realities faced by Syrian Jews, including imprisonment and torture, and sheds light on Carr's brave yet covert operations, driven by her deep commitment to Jewish lives and heritage.
30 Dec 2024
Reporters Notebook: What were the top stories for Canadian Jews in 2024?
Ellin Bessner reviews the major stories impacting Canadian Jewish communities over the past year, highlighting increased grassroots activism and enduring tensions involving anti-Zionist sentiments. The episode explores the profound effects of global events such as the Israel-Hamas conflict on local communities, encompassing both challenges and renewed Jewish pride across Canada.
25 Dec 2024
This Hanukkah, a new children’s book shares the true story of a young boy who kept the light on in his shtetl
Sheila Baslaw, at the age of 92, has co-authored a children's book, "The Light Keeper," with Karen Levine, highlighting the true story of Baslaw's father, Samuel Saslove, who maintained the electric street lights in his shtetl in Ukraine. The tale addresses themes of resilience and responsibility, set against the backdrop of Jewish life in early 20th-century Eastern Europe, and aims to inspire readers of all backgrounds.
23 Dec 2024
The CJN's political panel reflects on a tumultuous year for Jews—and an even worse week for Justin Trudeau
The CJN's political panel discusses the political upheaval in Canada, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau facing calls to resign and the implications for Jewish Canadians, particularly in light of rising antisemitism. Rachel Bendayan, newly appointed to Trudeau's cabinet, has announced a national summit on antisemitism, but there are doubts whether the current government will survive long enough to implement any meaningful changes.