Introduction: A Symbol of Faith, Safety, and Resilience
The mezuzah, a cherished symbol in Jewish tradition, is placed on doorposts as a reminder of faith, resilience, and the safety of home. Today, we invite allies from all backgrounds to display mezuzahs as a visible act of solidarity with the Jewish community. This act goes beyond tradition—it is a powerful symbol of peace, allyship, and unity.
A Collaborative Initiative
The Mezuzah Initiative is part of a growing international effort launched by the October 7 Coalition (O7C) in collaboration with #EndJewHatred and the #MyZuzahYourZuzah campaign.
O7C, founded by actor Patricia Heaton and advocate Elizabeth Dorros, was created in response to the events of October 7, 2023. According to O7C, “Christians and Jews must stand together to fight antisemitism and champion a future of peace, tolerance, and love.” The campaign empowers allies to take visible, meaningful actions in support of the Jewish community.
Originally launched in the United States, the Mezuzah Initiative was brought to Canada by The Interfaith Bridge, now with support from #EndJewHatred and Tafsik. Together, we are building bridges of solidarity, ensuring allies have tangible ways to show their support for the Jewish community.
Why a Clear Mezuzah with a Yellow Ribbon?
The mezuzahs for this initiative are made of clear acrylic to represent transparency, openness, and inclusion. The traditional scroll has been respectfully omitted, ensuring the mezuzah remains a unifying symbol for all allies - Jewish and non-Jewish - while honoring Jewish tradition.
A yellow ribbon adorns the mezuzah, symbolizing hope and remembrance for the hostages still held since October 7, 2023. It is a visible call for their safe return and a sign of shared solidarity.
This unity mezuzah was developed in collaboration with #MyZuzahYourZuzah, a campaign dedicated to fostering allyship through this symbolic initiative.
To purchase your mezuzah and join the movement, visit the #MyZuzahYourZuzah website.
Inspiration from The Christmas Menorahs
The story of Billings, Montana, reminds us of the power of collective allyship. When a brick shattered a window displaying a menorah, the town’s residents responded by placing menorahs in their own windows, saying, “We stand with you.”
Our mezuzah initiative echoes this message. Displaying a mezuzah today says, “You are not alone.”
Learn more about this story in the book The Christmas Menorahs: How a Town Fought Hate.
Why This Matters Now
Rising antisemitism has led to mezuzahs being torn from doorways and families removing theirs out of fear. On university campuses, antisemitic acts are creating an environment of hostility, causing Jewish students to feel unsafe. By displaying a mezuzah, allies can visibly reject hatred and stand in solidarity with Jewish neighbors.
This initiative offers a way to counteract fear with unity, sending a clear message that antisemitism has no place in our homes, workplaces, campuses, or communities.
Historical Lessons of Allyship
Throughout history, allies have stood with Jewish communities against hate.
During World War II, Danish citizens united to smuggle 7,200 Jewish neighbors to safety in Sweden. Their bravery showed that when people stand together, hatred can be defeated. Read more here.
These stories remind us that small acts of allyship—like displaying a mezuzah—can have profound impacts.
How to Participate
1. Order Your Mezuzah
To receive a clear mezuzah with a yellow ribbon, visit #MyZuzahYourZuzah or contact us through [The Interfaith Bridge website].
2. Display Your Mezuzah
Affix the mezuzah to your doorway, symbolizing your commitment to stand with the Jewish community.
3. Share on Social Media
Post a photo of your mezuzah on social media using the hashtags #MyZuzahYourZuzah, #endjewhatred, and #theofficialo7c. Or send directly to @theofficialo7c, @tafsik, @endjewhatred, @PatriciaHeaton, and @MyZuzahYourZuzah. And share why standing with the Jewish community matters to you.
4. Read the Ally Oath (optional)
Upon mounting your mezuzah, recite the following oath:
“We, as allies, in the doorway stand,
A sacred sign, a mezuzah in hand.
It guards our community, a beacon of light,
A symbol of faith, strong and bright.
With every touch, we honor the past,
In unity’s embrace, our spirits hold fast.
Together we stand, with pride we proclaim,
In the Jewish community, we share one name.
The mezuzah whispers, ‘You’re never alone,’
A testament of love, in every home.”
A Collaborative Effort in Toronto
The Mezuzah Initiative brings together #EndJewHatred, The Interfaith Bridge, the October 7 Coalition, and Tafsik to create a unified voice of support. By collaborating with grassroots organizations and movements like #MyZuzahYourZuzah, we amplify a simple yet profound message:
“You are not alone. We stand with you.”
Suggested Closing for Sermons or Events
“Today, as we display this mezuzah, we remember the courage of allies who have stood with Jewish communities throughout history. In choosing to stand together - by displaying a mezuzah, placing a menorah in our window, or speaking out - we reaffirm that love, courage, and community will always prevail over hate. Together, we declare: ‘You are not alone.’”
Join the Movement
For more information, to order mezuzahs, and to get involved:
• Purchase your mezuzah at #MyZuzahYourZuzah.
• Follow the October 7 Coalition on Instagram @theofficialo7c.
• Support #EndJewHatred.
