Mayor Mark Sutcliffe wants police chief, city officials to plan a ceremony to mark Israel's Independence Day

Mayor of Ottawa Mark Sutcliffe is asking the chief of police and city officials to work with the Jewish Federation of Ottawa to host an event to mark Israel's Independence Day next week.

Mayor of Ottawa Mark Sutcliffe is asking the chief of police and city officials to work with the Jewish Federation of Ottawa to host an event to mark Israel's Independence Day next week.

“Like all residents of our city, Ottawa’s Jewish community deserves to gather whenever it chooses in an environment that is free from hate, violence, and racism,” Sutcliffe said on X.

He notes that Ottawa is not only a free and democratic city, but also enjoys a unique texture made of diverse cultures and communities. Sutcliffe says that his request comes after “carefully” listening to members of the community, while asking to practice their civil rights without the “fear of threats and intimidation.”

“My responsibility is to do everything possible to protect the safety of all members of our community,” reads the post. “Let’s all work together to ensure our city is safe and free from violence and racism in all its forms.”

Sutcliffe’s post comes few days after the city announced that the flag of Israel will fly at Ottawa City Hall on May 14 to mark the country's Independence Day without holding the customary flag-raising ceremony, citing concerns about public safety.

"The City of Ottawa celebrates national holidays and independence days and holds flag-raising events and activities, in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada, for more than 190 federally recognized countries," the City said in a news release Tuesday evening.

The City said it is not holding the public ceremony after consulting with Ottawa police and other stakeholders.