A historic Montreal Orthodox synagogue was vandalized with antisemitic graffiti over the weekend, according to CTV News.
The Bagg Street Shul in the city”s Plateau-Mont-Royal neighbourhood, which first opened in 1921, was defaced by antisemites with swastikas spray painted on its front entrance and doors, and also on its windows.
The synagogue”s president Michael Kaplan told the news outlet that the incident was the first of its kind he has experienced in the 15 years he has been a member of the congregation.
Former Montreal councillor, and current B’nai Brith Canada director, Marvin Rotrand called on the Quebec city to do more to tackle antisemitism.
“While the congregation is small, the synagogue evokes Jewish history in Montreal and the attack on it causes dismay in the community,” he said in a letter sent to Montreal officials, according to CTV.
“B”nai Brith Canada condemns the clear act of antisemitism that occurred today at the historic Bagg Street Shul. The cowardly act of spray painting Nazi symbols on Jewish institutions must be universally denounced by all and perpetrators prosecuted,” B”nai Brith said in a separate statement.

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) said on Twitter that it had reported the incident to police and “will continue working with them to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish community.”
“We are horrified to learn that Montreal’s Bagg Street Shul has been defaced with antisemitic graffiti,” CIJA tweeted.

“Montreal police (SPVM) say they’ve been notified, adding that an investigation has not been opened but more information is expected in the coming days,” they said.
The antisemitic graffiti was also denounced by Montreal Mayor Val&eacuterie Plante.
“The desecration of the Bagg Street Shul Synagogue is absolutely unacceptable,” she said. “I am wholeheartedly with the Jewish community and I strongly condemn these antisemitic acts which have no place in our society.”