Windsor Jewish Federation addresses recent ‘hate-motivated’ messages they’ve received

The Windsor Jewish Federation says that several hate messages have been left on their voicemail in recent weeks.

The Windsor Jewish Federation and Community Centre is speaking out after receiving alleged ‘hate-motivated voicemails over the last two weeks, described as antisemitic.

“We received seven messages from this individual, even after the police had spoken to him and said to him, “You are not to contact the Jewish Community Center.” Then the same day the police had spoken to him, he left us some more voicemails.” said Marion Zeller, Windsor Jewish Federation and Community Centre.

The Jewish federation says between April 23 and May 5, a total of eight derogatory voicemails - including one sent to a local synagogue - were sent by the same individual.

All between 30 and 60 seconds in length.

Windsor police say the messages didn’t have direct threats of harm, but the tone, frequency, and content displayed targeted harassment.

As we reported last week, a 31-year-old suspect was arrested and charged with two counts of harassing communications.

Zeller says security protocols are in place, not only in Windsor but at Jewish centers across the country.

“We’re living in, in Canada, in a free society. And the fact that a Jewish organization should have to have security protocols because we have fear for our safety is just unacceptable,” said Zeller. “Even our own community members have to be granted access. They can’t freely walk into a building that is there to support them and serve them.