The World Jewish Congress–North America applauds the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) for reversing its decision and reinstating the Israeli documentary by a Canadian filmmaker about October 7 to its lineup.
This outcome was made possible by the efforts of the WJC Canada Advisory Council, in coordination with Canada's Jewish community which has long played an integral role at TIFF, ensuring the voices of victims and survivors are heard globally.
TIFF’s initial decision—based on demands by extremists within the organization and beyond—risked prioritizing the narrative of Hamas, a Canadian-list terrorist group, over the truth. That move would have set a troubling precedent, silencing testimony and distorting history.
“This is more than a scheduling change—it is a stand for truth against those who seek to erase it,” said David Koschitzky, Chair of WJC–North America. “By initially giving procedural weight to a terrorist group’s material, TIFF sent a chilling message. This reversal proves that truth can prevail.”
Brent S. Belzberg C.M., Chair of the WJC Canada Advisory Council, added: “We are proud to have helped ensure this film will be shown. TIFF’s reversal signals that truth-telling about terrorism is not negotiable.”
"Tens of thousands of people across Canada and around the world joined together to achieve this important reversal by TIFF," said CIJA CEO Noah Shack. "This demonstrates what we can achieve working together."
WJC–North America will continue working with partners to safeguard free expression and ensure that stories like 'The Road Between Us' are told without intimidation
