On Monday, June 8, over 100 women and allies gathered at The Makom Collective for Women for Israel’s first Toronto event, Celebrating Proud Zionist Women. Chaired by Ellen Powell and Kortney Shapiro, the evening was marked by an extraordinary sense of energy, solidarity, and meaningful connection.
The evening’s main program included a panel discussion with Victoria Mancinelli, LiUNA Director of Strategic Partnerships and Ally of the Jewish Community, and Idit Shamir, the Consul General of Israel for Toronto and Western Canada, led by our exceptional moderator Naomi Parness, award-winning storyteller, former journalist and founder of The Narrative Agency.
The panelists shared openly about their pride for supporting Israel and the Jewish community as well as the hardships they face daily to do so.
Idit Shamir commented on how tragic the atrocities of the October 7 attacks in Israel were, and how from the day after everything changed, and antisemitism started the next day.
Shamir reflected on how her role as Consul General of Israel in Toronto and Western Canada has changed dramatically over the course of her tenure. When she began her post in August 2021, her work focused primarily on strengthening economic ties and advancing diplomatic relations. In the wake of October 7, however, much of her role shifted to confronting rising antisemitism and advocating for Israel. She also spoke about the heightened security measures that have become part of her daily life, noting that requiring personal protection wherever she goes is a reality not shared by most diplomats serving abroad. As her term comes to an end, she reflected on the profound changes and challenges that have defined her time in office.
Following the event, one attendee commented, "Consul General Idit Shamir's remarks were both insightful and impactful, offering a powerful perspective on the challenges facing the Jewish community today and the importance of continuing to stand together against antisemitism." - Miriam Herlin, Event Attendee
Mancinelli also shared her deep and unwavering commitment to standing with Israel and the Jewish community. As a visible expression of that support, Mancinelli proudly wears a Chai necklace, explaining that she does so because some Jews no longer feel comfortable wearing one themselves. Her courageous advocacy against antisemitism and hate has earned her recognition from various local Jewish organizations in Hamilton. Mancinelli is a former Hamilton Negev Dinner honouree, continuing a proud family legacy as a third-generation Negev honouree following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, who received the honour 25 years earlier. Victoria also has a strong connection to Friends of JNF Canada.
"The conversation reinforced that anti-Zionism and antisemitism are not only Jewish issues. Allies who stand with Israel and the Jewish community are increasingly being targeted as well. The evening's message was clear: speak up, build bridges, foster understanding, and work together to protect the Canada we know, one built on respect, safety, and freedom for all. Above all, we must continue to stand proudly as Jews, allies, and Zionists.” - Sofia Hirsh, Women for Israel Executive Committee Member
At a time when standing proudly for Israel and Jewish identity requires courage and conviction, our panelists offered powerful insights into the vital role women are playing across diplomacy, advocacy, media, and community leadership. Through deeply personal reflections, they shared the challenges and sacrifices that accompany their work on behalf of the Jewish and Zionist communities, as well as the profound impact that rising antisemitism has had on their lives and careers. We are grateful to all who joined us for this important and inspiring conversation.
“The event was a powerful celebration of my love for Israel and my Zionist identity. Over the past few years, witnessing antisemitism and anti-Israel rhetoric on social media and in the streets of Toronto has often left me feeling unsafe. Hearing Naomi, Victoria, and Idit speak was both reassuring and inspiring. Their messages were a powerful reminder that we have allies and fellow Zionists standing together, speaking out, and working to combat hatred and intolerance. I left the evening feeling encouraged, supported, and hopeful.” - Zillah Dacosta, Event Attendee
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