Mezuzahs allegedly torn down in Toronto seniors building

Toronto city councillor James Pasternak (York Centre) is calling for swift action after mezuzahs were torn from doorposts at a seniors housing complex in North York, describing the incident as an act of hate against Jewish residents.

Pasternak said all mezuzahs at 6250 Bathurst Street, a Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation (TSHC) building, were removed. He confirmed that he had spoken with the building’s rabbi and connected residents with Toronto police’s 32 Division.

“This is an act of hate directed at Jewish residents — seniors who deserve safety, stability, and dignity in their own homes,” Pasternak wrote in a statement shared on social media. “There is no excuse for targeting people because they are Jewish. Toronto cannot look the other way while seniors are intimidated in their hallways.”

A mezuzah is a small, decorative case traditionally affixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes. Inside is a scroll of parchment inscribed with Hebrew verses from the Torah, including the Shema prayer, a central declaration of faith.

The mezuzah serves both as a religious symbol and a marker of Jewish identity, often seen as a sign of protection and blessing for the household.

In a follow-up message, Pasternak urged Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow to denounce the incident and address what he described as intimidation of Jewish residents.

“We will continue working with residents, Toronto Seniors Housing, and police until safety is restored.”

CityNews has reached out to Toronto police for comment on the alleged hate crime and the ongoing investigation.