EVENT PROGRAM
In conversation with
Dame NOVEMBER 2, 2023 | BEANFIELD CENTRE
Legendary British actor Dame Helen Mirren has earned
“LEGENDARY BRITISH ACTOR” “ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST ACCLAIMED DRAMATIC ARTISTS”
widespread international recognition for her exemplary work on stage, screen and television. Among her many honours, she's won an Oscar, Emmy, Tony, multiple BAFTA Awards and a Golden Globe. In 2022, she received the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award for her outstanding career in film.
Dame
Israel’s Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism
MICHAL COTLERWUNSH LL.B, LL.M
Michal Cotler-Wunsh is a prominent public speaker, researcher, and independent policy and strategy advisor on intersecting issues of antisemitism, law, human rights, and Zionism. Informed by political, professional, and academic experience, Michal explores topics surrounding mutated and mainstreamed rising antisemitism; international law, human rights, and the harm of their weaponization; the threat of disinformation and conspiracy theories to democracies; Zionism as a millennia-old identity integral to the construction of a progressive national liberation movement; the relationship between Israel and global Jewry in collaborative nationbuilding; and the role of “Olim” as a “live bridge” to build resiliency, address growing internal gaps, and connect Israel to global communities, cultures, and countries. Michal’s focus on process, transparency, and accountability, continues to inform and guide her in the role of Israel’s Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism, engaging local and global partners around the shared responsibility to comprehensively identify and address the rise and mainstreaming of ever-mutating antisemitic hate.
Jeanne Beker was born in Toronto to Holocaust survivors who instilled in her the importance of fearlessness, hard work, and tenacity from a young age. She began her professional show biz career at the age of 16. After studying acting in New York and mime in Paris, she moved to Newfoundland where she worked as an arts journalist for CBC radio. A few years later Beker found herself back in Toronto landing a job at CHUM radio and in 1979 she co-hosted the ground-breaking series The NewMusic. A founding member of MuchMusic, Jeanne continued to trailblaze when in 1985 she launched the legendary Fashion Television which was presented in over 130 countries for 27 years.
JEANNE BEKER
TONIGHT’S EVENT Opening Presentation
Harmony Scott & Gershon Willinger
Welcome from FSWC Board Chair
Fred Waks
Special Guest Speaker Israel’s Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism
Michal Cotler-Wunsh
Remarks from the Premier of Ontario
The Honourable Doug Ford
Remarks from the Mayor of Toronto
Her Worship Olivia Chow
A Message from FSWC President and CEO
Michael Levitt
A Special Tribute to GTA Police Services Dinner Tour for Humanity Video Presentation In conversation with
HELEN MIRREN Dessert Reception
Naomi Parness & Matthew Shoychet Moderated by
JEANNE BEKER
A Joint Message from FSWC’s President/CEO and Chair of the Board
Michael Levitt
President and CEO
Fred Waks
Chairman of the Board
Dear Friends, On behalf of our entire organization, it’s an honour and pleasure for us to welcome you to Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center’s 2023 Spirit of Hope. At such a troubling time for the Jewish community when our brothers and sisters in Israel face a harrowing reality, the opportunity for us to come together in unity and solidarity is more important than ever. That we are also joined by so many steadfast allies from other communities makes this event even more meaningful as it reminds us that we’re not alone.
Speaking of standing up and speaking out for Israel, we’re thrilled to have as our featured special guest for this year’s Spirit of Hope, Dame Helen Mirren, the legendary actress and humanitarian who’s a longstanding friend of Israel and the Jews. The interview Jeanne Beker will be conducting with Helen is sure to be a high point of the evening. We’re also honoured to have Michal Cotler-Wunsh, Israel Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism, who will provide a briefing of the current situation in Israel.
Truth be told, following the heart-wrenching, earth-shaking tragedy Israel suffered on October 7, we deliberated on whether to go ahead with Spirit of Hope. Amid the profound shock, grief and trauma Israelis, and Jews everywhere, were – and are –experiencing, we consulted our team at FSWC and members of the community to hear their perspective.
We hope this evening will add to your knowledge and understanding of the vital role FSWC plays in our community and beyond in the never-ending fight against antisemitism and other forms of hate and in teaching the always relevant lessons of the Holocaust.
Clearly, the past few weeks represent the darkest, most painful chapter in Jewish history since the Holocaust. If it’s difficult for our entire community, the atrocities that Hamas terrorists carried out in southern Israel, coupled with the dramatic rise in antisemitism in Canada and elsewhere, are especially agonizing for Holocaust survivors. Likewise for their children already emotionally scarred by what their parents suffered at the hands of the Nazis. All of us are fervently hoping for the freedom of the children, women and men kidnapped in Israel by Hamas on October 7 and currently being held hostage in Gaza. They are always in our hearts and minds as we pray for their safe and immediate return home. Despite the continuing sobering picture, the consensus among those who expressed their opinion was a desire, even a need, to gather with others to collectively stand up in support of Israel and to show our resolve as an engaged Jewish community determined to fight growing antisemitism, something at the core of FSWC’s work every day.
The overwhelming response of our community in support of Spirit of Hope in particular, and of our organization in general, is highly gratifying for both of us and for our incredibly dedicated team at FSWC. Of course, our work is only possible due to the support and generosity of our many donors for which we want to express our heartfelt gratitude. Please know how much it also inspires everyone at FSWC. Thank you for being here with us this evening and standing with FSWC and our work defending the values of justice, freedom, tolerance and inclusivity in Canada to the benefit of all. Your interest in and devotion to our collective mission are indispensable. We never take your support for granted.
Michael Levitt President and CEO
Fred Waks Chairman of the Board
A Message from the Prime Minister of Canada
A Message from the Leader of Official Opposition of Canada
The Rt. Hon. Justin P.J. Trudeau, P.C., M.P.
The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, P.C., M.P
Prime Minister I Premier Ministre
Leader of the Opposition
Dear Friends:
Dear friends,
I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to everyone attending the 2023 Spirit of Hope gala, hosted by the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies (FSWC).
On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I am honoured to send my best wishes to everyone attending this year’s Spirit of Hope.
This annual event offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your organization’s many achievements, to look to the future, and to honour members of the community for their philanthropy. I join you in congratulating this year’s FSWC Humanitarian Award recipient and Spirit of Hope keynote speaker, Dame Helen Mirren.
The horrors of the past few months are indescribable. The evil, sadistic attacks against the people of Israel by Hamas have demonstrated that the plague of antisemitism has not yet been extinguished. Now, more than ever, we must come together in our support of Israel and the Jewish people, truly united in a spirit of hope.
You have also come together this evening to raise funds in support of advocacy programs and activities that help counter discrimination and antisemitism. I would like to commend everyone in attendance for their generosity and the FSWC for their dedication to fostering fellowship in the community. You can be proud of your commitment to promoting tolerance, social justice, and democratic values. Please accept my best wishes for an enjoyable evening.
The work being done by the FSWC and incredible champions like Dame Helen Mirren, the Honourable Irwin Cotler, and Special Envoy Michal Cotler-Wunsh ensures that Jewish people can have faith that there are many friends and allies ready to stand in their defence. Conservatives will always stand in solidarity with the people of Israel. We offer our wholehearted support to Jewish Canadians across the country as we work to fight antisemitism and restore hope for the future. We will continue to seek ways to strengthen our allyship with the State of Israel today and in the future. We will work tirelessly to ensure that Israelis and Jewish people worldwide can live in peace and security once again.
Sincerely, All the best as you come together at the Spirit of Hope today. May everyone attending be blessed and uplifted as you discuss the incredibly valuable work being done worldwide to combat antisemitism and chart a brighter future for the Jewish people. Let’s bring it home. The Rt. Hon. Justin P. J. Trudeau, P.C., M.P. Prime Minister of Canada
Sincerely,
The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, P.C., M.P Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada
A Message from the Premier of Ontario
A Message from the Mayor of Toronto
Doug Ford
Olivia Chow
Premier of Ontario
Mayor of Toronto
It is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to everyone attending the “Spirit of Hope” event organized by the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC). A warm welcome to everyone taking part in the 2023 Spirit of Hope Benefit. Now more than ever, we must all remain steadfast in our fight against antisemitism. Ontario is at its best when everyone shares a feeling of belonging and works together for the greater good. We will never stand down in our fight against all forms of bigotry and hate. This special event brings together supporters from all walks of life to stamp out antisemitism, racism, and intolerance. I would like to thank the Friends of the Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies for creating this opportunity to gather in support of Israel. And I would like to thank tonight’s guests for their generosity in helping the Center deliver their programs which promote freedom, democracy and human rights. My best wishes for a memorable evening.
Today’s event celebrates the achievements of a diverse community of leaders, influencers and visionaries who are dedicated to the causes of social justice and tolerance. It is also an opportunity to draw inspiration from their stories which contribute to a more just and tolerant world. Congratulations and best wishes to Dame Helen Mirren, who is receiving the FSWC’s 2023 Humanitarian Award at today’s event. It is wonderful to hear that you are receiving this special recognition. Thank you to the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) for all of your contributions and your social advocacy work. The City of Toronto acknowledges with gratitude, organizations and individuals who are committed to making a difference in their communities. On behalf of Toronto City Council, please accept my best wishes for a memorable event. Yours truly,
Doug Ford Premier of Ontario Olivia Chow Mayor of Toronto
OUR LEADERSHIP President & CEO Michael Levitt Chair of Board of Directors Fred Waks Honorary Chairman Gerald Schwartz, OC Board of Directors Ron Baruch Lawrence Bloomberg, C.M., O.Ont Michael Bregman Paul Bronfman David Cynamon Gordon R. Diamond, O.C., O.B.C. Joel Feldberg Jeremy Freedman Ron Frisch Rabbi Marvin Hier Rabbi Meyer May Sam Mizrahi Philip Reichmann Jill Reitman Gloria Salomon Molly S. Shoichet, O.C., O.Ont. Eric Weisz Eddie Weisz
Executive Fundraising Committee Members Ron Baruch Michael Bregman Paul Bronfman David Cynamon Judith Finer-Freedman Matthew Gottlieb Jill Reitman Fred Waks Eddie Weisz
Ambassador Circle Brad Ashley Renette Berman Judy Betel Gary Bensky Allan Brown Mel Brown Milton Davis Merrick Falkenstein Alan Farber Susan Glick David Glick Eddie Glick Michelle Glied-Goldstein Stuart Golvin Matt Gottlieb Allen Grinberg Carole Gruson Helene Korn Allan Kates Stephen Karr Allen Karp Evelyn Krakauer Jonathan Latsky Dan Malamet Israel Mida Faye Minuk Pablo Reich Bob Rubinoff
Richard Sacks Richard Wachsberg Alan Wainer Arthur Stern Jack Steckel Richard Wachsberg Alan Wainer Bob Rubinoff Richard Sacks Arthur Stern Jack Steckel Honorary Board Members Samuel Belzberg z”l Honey Sherman z”l Cecil Yolles GenerationNOW Co-Chairs Lexi Alter Ashley Rosenberg Jordana Teperman
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS Chai Sponsor Diamond Foundation Platinum Sponsors Fred and Linda Waks and Family Paradise Developments The Paul Bronfman Family Foundation Gold Sponsors Brad Krawczyk Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation Daryl and Derek Erdman and Family David and Stacey Cynamon and Nancy Pencer Effort Trust George & Judy Frankfort & Family In hour of Willie and Rachel Moll, both Holocaust survivors Pamela and Paul Austin Preston Group RBC Saul z”l and Toby Feldberg & Family TD Trinity Silver Sponsors BMO Ganz Family Foundation Masters Insurance Moses & Temara Tobe Foundation The Bregman Family The Jeremy & Judith Freedman Family Foundation Sapphire Sponsors Argo Development Corp Bazil Developments Bob Rubinoff CIBC Dentalcorp Fieldgate Developments Fogler Rubinoff Kerbel Group Inc Kohl and Frisch Larry and Judy Tanenbaum Foundation Leo and Sala Goldhar Foundation Lorne Swartz and Marnie Salsky
Renette and David Berman TACC Developments The Brown Group The Gerald Schwartz & Heather Reisman Foundation The Shoichet Family Weirfoulds LLP Bronze Sponsors Adams and Waks Alexander E. Grossman Foundation Allan & Lisa Brown and Family Ed and Fran Sonshine Greenwin Jeff and Isla Blidner & Family Jill Reitman & Joel Reitman, C.M. Lionel and Helaine Robins Michael and Jackie Shulman David and Bonnie Goldstein LiUNA The Drimmer Family The Linda Frum and Howard Sokolowski Chartiable Foundation The Silber Family Yorkwood Homes Diamond Sponsors BAM Foundation BDO Benjamin & Levitt Families Boston Traders Carpenters Local 27 Carpenters’ Regional Council Diamond and Diamond Eph and Shirley Diamond Family Export Packers Hilton In Honour of June Mitchell ISA International Lynn and Brent Belzberg Marilyn and Sammy Sliwin and Family Mayfair Clubs Milton Davis and Caroline Pinto MNP
Philip & Hannah Reichman PWC Scotia Wealth Management Silvervore Properties Steeles Memorial Chapel The Fine Family The Kimel Family The Leonard Simpson Family Foundation The Masters Family Foundation George and Lesley Sas Alan and Renee Gozlan The Menkes Family The Prosserman Family The Vogue Development Group Inc and The Greenbaum Family Torkin Manes Vault Mortgage Corporation Westcourt Capital Wycfliffe Emerald Sponsors DH Gales Family Foundation Dr. Marcia Sokolowski Glenda and Alan Wainer Helene Korn and Stephen Title Hyman Family Foundation Israel Bonds KPMG Lynx Equity Income Trust Marz McCarney Group Melvyn and Pamela Himel Allan Kates & Danielle Himel Eric Adeslon and Andrea Himel Pablo and Mara Reich Quality Homes Richter Sacks Family Foundation The Asper Foundation Tom and Anna Koffler Family Tribute Communities Ruby Sponsors Tammy Glied and Robert Beliak Wendy Switzer Myles Patron Sponsors Al G Brown and Associates Brettler Mintz Foundation Charles Goldberg and Carole Gruson
Drs. Susan and Eddie Glick and Family Gail Erlick Robinson MD FRCPC CM OOnt. Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd. John and Rosie Uster John and Susan Rose Larry and Marla Blankenstein Leila & Gary Lax Merrick and Ruth Falkenstein Morli Shemesh & Marc Bissell Phaze 3 Shelley Levitt & Martin Simon Simmons daSilva LLP The Alterra Group of Companies Media Sponsor National Post In-Kind Sponsor Wild North
Inspired by the legacy of Simon Wiesenthal, FSWC works to build a more inclusive, respectful Canada by sharing the lessons of the Holocaust, advocating for human rights and combatting antisemitism and hate in all its forms.