Conservative Senator Leo Housakos has declared that antisemitism in Canada has reached a crisis point. “Jews are no longer safe in Canada. That’s a fact, not a feeling. And we as politicians are in no small part to blame,” he stated, urging immediate action to protect Jewish communities across the country.

Senator Housakos, born in Montreal in 1968 to Greek immigrant parents, has long been a vocal advocate for human rights and religious freedom. He was appointed to the Senate in 2008 and served as Speaker in 2015. In May 2025, he became Leader of the Opposition in the Senate.

His recent remarks come amid a disturbing rise in antisemitic incidents in Canada, including hate crimes, vandalism, and inflammatory rhetoric in public spaces. Jewish advocacy groups have reported a significant increase in threats and harassment, leading to heightened concerns about safety and security.