Police investigating mezuzah removal in North York as hate crime

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 Toronto police spokesperson told The Leader Spirit that while authorities do not yet have an exact count, they have received reports of multiple mezuzahs being removed from units within a building in the Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue West area.

No injuries were reported.

“This is being investigated by 32 Division and the Hate Crime Unit,” the spokesperson said, adding that all reports to date were received on Sunday. “We should have an update later this morning.”

Councillor calls on Mayor Chow

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.”