Emily Bonnell

Emily Bonnell is the Senior Advocacy Lead at Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) in Toronto. She holds a Master of Arts in History from Wilfrid Laurier University, specializing in Holocaust and Genocide Studies, and a Master of Arts in Understanding and Securing Human Rights from the University of London’s School of Advanced Study. Emily develops and implements advocacy-focused programs that address antisemitism and other forms of hatred and intolerance. She leads FSWC’s national programming with police services on hate crime and antisemitism training, working to strengthen law enforcement's understanding and response to hate in Canada. In her work, Emily educates and empowers professionals across a range of sectors and industries, helping them engage meaningfully with issues related to antisemitism and broader human rights challenges, while also building strong relationships with key stakeholders and allies. She advocates for policies that combat hate while fostering informed, action-driven solutions. 

Emily’s career in advocacy has been defined by a dedication to confronting hate, promoting inclusivity, and advancing human rights. She is also committed to fostering respect for those participating in civic life and public discourse, recognizing that hate is fundamentally at odds with democratic values. Her work emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating Canada’s diverse communities as a foundation for respectful, inclusive engagement.