Mayoral candidate Alex Lawson was unable to attend an election roundtable at the Jewish Federation of Ottawa in person, however he answered questions from the Elections Guide via email about how he would collaborate with the Jewish community if elected. 

Please see a transcript of that conversation below:

E-Bulletin: What role can the City play to push back against antisemitism and the violent forms of antizionism so Jewish residents can live safely and openly in Ottawa?

Alex Lawson: While holding people accountable and making sure that we have an adequate number of police to properly investigate hate crimes is an important factor, this only addresses the issue after the fact. I believe that education is going to be the biggest factor in stopping hate.

E-Bulletin: Ottawa has seen violent demonstrations where participants have expressed support for terrorist organizations and celebrated the October 7 attacks. What steps should the City take when events on public property cross the line into intimidation, hate, support for terrorism or threats to public safety?

Alex Lawson: The right to protest is a core Canadian value. These protests, however, cannot cross the line into hate or endangering citizens. The municipal government getting involved in what a person is or isn't allowed to say is a slippery slope. It is important that everyone is safe and feels safe when attending public demonstrations.

E-Bulletin: For clarity for the community, what was your position on the bubble bylaw, and has it changed? 

Alex Lawson: I support the bubble bylaw. 

E-Bulletin: Ottawa’s mayors and councillors have long demonstrated their support for Jewish Ottawa by participating in community events and festivals, Israel Independence Day, Holocaust remembrance and October 7 commemorations. How will you engage with and demonstrate your support for Ottawa’s Jewish community? 

Alex Lawson: I stand with every community in Ottawa and will attend many commemorative celebrations for various communities throughout my time as mayor. 

E-Bulletin: In 2023, Ottawa City Council called for greater emphasis on antisemitism education within the City’s anti-racism work. How will you ensure this commitment is implemented across the City and its agencies, using a clear and recognized understanding of antisemitism, including the IHRA working definition?

Alex Lawson: We need to ensure that the people living in Ottawa feel safe to practise and express their faith in the community. My personal position on the actions of a foreign state will not impact this sentiment.  

E-Bulletin: Will you oppose efforts to bring international political campaigns, including BDS measures targeting Israel, into city politics? 

Alex Lawson: I believe the municipal government should be focused on issues within city limits.  All proposals, no matter the topic, will be addressed and evaluated at time of receipt.  In matters of international trade, we will be following the federal government's lead. 

I am running to get the basics right. Transit, crime, traffic, and affordability. I think the city made some bad decisions over the last four years, like the three-garbage bag limit, and I want to fix it, because we pay a lot in property taxes and Ottawa deserves better. Visit votealex.ca to see my full platform.