A decorative Menorah is seen outside a Hanukkah Menorah lighting ceremony at Mel Lastman Square in Toronto, on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan
A decorative Menorah is seen outside a Hanukkah Menorah lighting ceremony at Mel Lastman Square in Toronto, on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sammy Kogan
WINNIPEG - Health officials in Winnipeg have apologized after a Hannukah ceremony at the city's largest hospital was disrupted with antisemitic slurs.
Officials say an individual shouted hate speech at those gathered Monday at the menorah lighting ceremony at Health Sciences Centre.
The incident was reported to police.
A joint statement from executives at the hospital and Shared Health, a provincial health planning agency, says it was deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
The menorah lighting marks the start of Hannukah and is a tradition for Jewish communities around the world.
In Australia, 15 people were killed in a mass shooting at a gathering to celebrate the start of Hannukah on Sunday.
"At Shared Health and its facilities, we unequivocally condemn any form of racism, hate and discrimination," said the joint statement on Wednesday.
"We extend our sincerest apologies to everyone who was present and acknowledge the real pain, fear and trauma that such hateful words can cause, particularly during what should have been a moment of peace, reflection and celebration."
This report by ºÃÉ«tvwas first published Dec. 17, 2025
