Promoting Jewish and Iranian dialogue

March 5, 2026 • Jewish Federation of Ottawa

Ottawa’s Jewish and Iranian communities seek greater dialogue

Amid tensions in the Middle East, the Jewish Federation of Ottawa is strengthening ties with the city’s Iranian community through dialogue and cultural exchange. Conversations with leaders including the National Iranian Canadian Assembly (NICA) aim to foster understanding, counter harmful narratives, and create opportunities for collaboration, highlighting shared values and a long history of connection between Jewish and Persian peoples.

Mishloach Manot packages spread joy and connection across Ottawa

Across Ottawa, Purim’s tradition of giving mishloach manot brought the community together as organizations including Ten Yad of Ottawa and JET delivered about 1,400 festive packages to individuals, families, seniors, and facilities. Supported by hundreds of volunteers, the initiatives spread joy, strengthens connection, and ensured recipients feel remembered, valued, and part of the Jewish community.

Jewish Journeys grants broaden community engagement

For the first time, the Jewish Federation of Ottawa’s Jewish Journeys grant has been awarded to individual community members. Recipients Yulia Elgin and Michael Kent used the funding to expand programming for Russian-speaking Jews and young adults, respectively, helping hundreds of participants build connections, reduce isolation, and deepen their engagement with Jewish life across Ottawa.

Ottawa Jewish community member honoured for preserving city’s heritage

Stuart Lazear has received the Louise and Eric Moore Award for Outstanding Volunteerism at the Capital Heritage Connection Heritage Day ceremony, recognizing decades of dedication to preserving Ottawa’s historic buildings. A former heritage planner and longtime volunteer, Lazear has helped protect local landmarks while sharing his passion for history with the broader community.

Voices: Purim is a holiday of courage, reversal, and joy

In this piece for the Multifaith Housing Initiative (MHI) blog, Harvey Goldberg, a member of Federation's Communications and Community Relations Committee, as well as a a retired senior policy analyst at the Canadian Human Rights Commission, writes about the meaning of Purim and how it connects to current events amidst increased antisemitism and tensions with modern-day Iran.

Marking life's milestones

The Board of Directors of the Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation acknowledges with thanks contributions to the following funds as of February 26, 2026.

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