Allies of all backgrounds visit Kiva's in a show of solidarity

Global News, CP24, and CBC interviewed members of the Hindu, Christian, Chinese, Somalilander, and Iranian communities at Kiva's Bakery 

Allies stand up against hatred at Kiva's (July 29, 2026)

A group of Canadians of all backgrounds joined Allied Voices for Israel (AVI) at Kiva's Bakery in Toronto today for a solidarity lunch following two coordinated attacks on Sunday against separate branches of the Jewish-owned bakery chain.

The gathering attracted media attention from Global News, CBC, and CP24, as AVI staff and various community members shared words of support and solidarity, making it onto local and national news outlets. 

AVI Founder Daniel Koren on CP24 News

Iranian human rights activist Shermineh Novak

Dr. Ragini Sharma of the  Canadian Organization for Hindu Heritage Education

Shots were fired at one location, striking a window, while a second branch had its window smashed. No injuries were reported. B'nai Brith Canada recently reported that 27 violent antisemitic incidents have been documented in Canada in just the first half of 2026 – more than double all of 2025.

2026 is already on track to be the second worst year for violent antisemitism in Canadian history, surpassed only by 2023 in the immediate aftermath of October 7.

In the face of all this fear, it was refreshing and touching to see members of Toronto's Christian, Iranian, Hindu, Somalilander, and Chinese communities show up with sentiments of unity, compassion, and support for Toronto's Jewish community.

Director of Campus Affairs Idaliah Snajdman (right) connected with panelist Shermineh Esmati-Novak at the “Becoming a Success and Force for Good” featuring leaders of Toronto's Iranian community

Director of Campus Affairs Idaliah Snajdman connected with panelists Shermineh Esmati-Novak and Dr. Alan Bostakian at the Becoming a Success and Force for Good panel, where along with panelist Salar Gholami, discussed their perspectives on pressing international issues, including diplomatic relations between Iran and Israel.⁠

This important fireside chat was part of the Global Hotspots Series, Vision for Iran – an ongoing program of public policy and international affairs panel events hosted by the historic Albany Club in Toronto.⁠

For more footage from the event, please click here.

Donate Now

Click the above still to hear AVI Alumna Kyla's thoughts upon graduating from AVI's first cohort of Social Media Interns!

AVI Alumna Kyla made a video reflecting on her journey as an AVI Social Media Intern, and the tools it’s given her to effectively express her Israel advocacy and unique perspective.

Kyla, we are so proud of you and know that you will go on to do great things! To hear Kyla's thoughts, please click here.

Click the above graphic to learn more and apply

To kick off our next Common Roots Ambassadorship, we will be taking our cohort of high school students on a trip to Houston, Texas, for an immersive exploration of coalition-building and advocacy. ⁠

As one of the most diverse cities in the United States, Houston offers a unique opportunity to hear from inspiring Jewish communal leaders, advocates, and interfaith partners who are building meaningful relationships and creating positive change within their communities.⁠

Through engaging workshops, dynamic conversations, and hands-on learning, Grade 8-12 students of all backgrounds will strengthen their advocacy and leadership skills, learn effective strategies for community engagement and storytelling, and connect with peers from across Canada.⁠

Together, participants will explore how collaboration, allyship, and shared values can help create lasting impact while exploring Houston’s history and culture, enjoying exciting activities, and building friendships that will last a lifetime. ⁠

If you're looking for a community that feels like home and a program that pushes you to grow and learn, you just found it.⁠

To learn more and apply, please click here.