Coquitlam adds security for Hanukkah after Australia attack
An upcoming Hanukkah celebration in Coquitlam will have increased security on Thursday following a deadly mass shooting at a similar event in Sydney, Australia. The event, a menorah lighting at Spirit Square, is organized by Tri-Cities Chabad, which is led by Rabbi Mottel Gurevitz. The decision for heightened security was made after an attack at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, where two gunmen killed 15 people and injured dozens more at a Hanukkah gathering. That event was organized by Chabad of Bondi, which, like the Coquitlam group, is part of the global Chabad-Lubavitch movement.
The Coquitlam RCMP has confirmed that extra officers will be present to ensure public safety. Rabbi Gurevitz noted that police squad cars have also been positioned near the local Hebrew school recently. The organizers are proceeding with the public celebration, stating that the community will not give in to fear. Jewish communities in other Canadian cities, such as Vancouver and Montreal, have also seen increased police presence at their Hanukkah events following the attack in Australia.
Chabad-Lubavitch is a Hasidic Jewish movement that originated in Russia in the 18th century and is now one of the largest Jewish organizations worldwide. The movement is known for its outreach and educational activities, with thousands of representatives operating community centers globally. Tri-Cities Chabad, co-directed by Rabbi Gurevitz and his wife Nechama, has been active in building the Jewish community in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody through various programs and events since their arrival in 2022.
The celebration in Coquitlam is scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. While it is open to everyone, attendees have been asked to register in advance. The event will include the lighting of a large menorah, activities for children, and a fire-juggling show.
Steven Ganot
