Torch and Maple

Two Generations. One Canadian Promise.

In the latest edition of Carried Forward, Torch & Maple is proud to feature a special two-part contribution from a Jewish Canadian mother and son, Nathaniel Borins and Beth Herst.

Across two generations and two distinct perspectives, they reflect on Canada, citizenship, belonging, and what it means to inherit a national promise worth carrying forward.

Nathaniel explores his family’s Canadian story and the civic traditions that have shaped the country, asking what responsibility a new generation has to preserve and renew them. Beth confronts the rise of antisemitism in Canada while affirming her commitment to the ideals of equality, dignity, security, and inclusion that define the Canadian promise.

Together, their reflections remind us that believing in Canada does not mean believing it is perfect. It means believing that its promise is worth defending, strengthening, and passing on.

https://substack.com//note/p-214985816?r=8dfxm7

Canada has the longest coastline in the world, but defending it requires more than geography. 🇨🇦

In our latest Carried Forward article submission, Rajeev make the case for why nuclear-powered submarines could be critical to protecting Canadian sovereignty, strengthening our Arctic presence, and ensuring Canada can defend its interests in an increasingly uncertain world.

A serious country needs serious capabilities.

Read the full article here: https://torchandmaple.substack.com/p/a-strong-and-sovereign-canada-needs?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=8dfxm7

Our first Torching Hunger Food Bank Volunteer Session was a powerful reminder of what can happen when young Canadians come together to serve their communities. 🇨🇦

Together, our volunteers helped support dozens of families, demonstrating that patriotism is not only about pride in our country, but also about taking responsibility for the people who call it home.

To everyone who joined us, thank you for your time, energy, and commitment to making a difference. Every box packed and every hour volunteered helped strengthen our community.

This is only the beginning. Together, we'll continue carrying Canada forward through service.

New article submission by Iaana Walia on the Case for Lowering Canada's Voting Age to 16.

Please read Iaana's thoughts below!
https://open.substack.com/pub/torchandmaple/p/the-case-for-lowering-canadas-voting?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=8dfxm7

Rey Pagtakhan helped shape Canada's story through a lifetime of public service.

As a physician, Member of Parliament, and federal cabinet minister, he broke barriers as one of the first Filipino Canadians to hold senior federal office, helping pave the way for future generations.

His story reminds us that Canada's strength is built by people from every background who choose to serve something greater than themselves.

What lesson do you think young Canadians can learn from his legacy?

Antisemitism has no place in Canada, including on our university campuses.

In this personal reflection, Ella Rozen shares how the campus climate has changed since October 7 and what those changes have meant for her experience as a Jewish student.

At Torch & Maple, we believe every Canadian should be able to express their identity, engage in respectful debate, and feel safe in their community.

Read the full article at the Substack link: https://open.substack.com/pub/torchandmaple/p/my-experience-with-antisemitism-on?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=8dfxm7