At the outbreak of the Gaza War in 2014, a group of several dozen Jews in Victoria, BC, came together to form a new activist group dedicated to human rights and equality. We named our group “If Not Now, When?” in reference to the famous Jewish religious leader Hillel the Elder’s inspiring call to self-reflection and action. 

In the summer of 2025, we underwent a formal name change that was put to a vote by our membership, and now we are "Kesher: Jews for a Shared Future". 

The Hebrew word Kesher (קשר) means connection and reflects our desire to nurture connection and increase mutual understanding within Jewish communities and beyond. We advocate for Palestinian people, in the face of Israeli oppression — while also creating a space where Jews can discuss concerns such as growing antisemitism.

We have since developed as a Canadian Jewish education, discussion, and activist group dedicated to the values of compassion and liberty as embodied in Jewish culture and traditions. We see ourselves as part of a global movement that champions the values of equality and dignity for all. 

Past events have included book clubs, listening circles, a weekly vigil, guest speakers and more.