The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on September 25, 2023, on Yom Kippur:
“Tonight, at sundown, Jewish people in Canada and around the world will gather to mark the holiest day of the Jewish calendar – Yom Kippur.
“For the past ten days, since the Book of Life was opened on Rosh Hashanah, Jewish people have been reflecting on the past year and preparing for the Day of Atonement. Now, as Jewish people across Canada come together for a day of prayer and fasting, they will repent for their wrongdoings and seek forgiveness. They will take comfort in God’s unfailing mercy until the Closing of the Gates.
“This powerful occasion has spiritually sustained generations of Jewish Canadians, allowing them to draw on the strength of their faith and community while also preserving the centuries-old traditions that continue to enrich our country.
“On Yom Kippur, as Jewish Canadians recommit to the timeless values of atonement and peace, I invite all Canadians to join them in renewing our commitment to making our country a safe place where Jewish communities can practice their faith in peace and freedom.
“To everyone observing this occasion in homes and synagogues across Canada tonight, G’mar Chatimah Tovah.”