Advocacy Intern

Reporting to: Senior Director, Policy and Advocacy
Start Date: ASAP
Position: Three-Month Contract

THE ORGANIZATION

Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies (FSWC) is a non-profit human rights organization committed to countering racism and antisemitism and to promoting the principles of inclusion, social justice and Canadian democratic values through advocacy and education.

THE OPPORTUNITY

FSWC seeks a motivated and organized Advocacy Lead to work closely with the Advocacy team to support our organization’s mandate to confront antisemitism and hate targeting the Jewish community. This position offers a unique opportunity for someone interested in building a career in Jewish community advocacy to gain hands-on experience. We are looking for a highly driven and organized individual with a strong commitment to combating hate and promoting understanding, and is eager to contribute to our vital work.

This is three-month intern position funded through specific resources, with the possibility of extension based on performance and future funding availability. This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct research on issues related to antisemitism, hate speech, and discrimination targeting the Jewish community.
• Assist in drafting advocacy materials, including reports, briefs, and statements.
• Monitor and analyze developments in antisemitism and hate crimes.
• Support advocacy campaigns and initiatives to combat antisemitism and promote human rights.
• Collaborate with other team members to develop strategies for engaging policymakers, stakeholders, and the public on these issues.
• Attend and report on relevant events, conferences, and meetings.
• Perform other tasks as assigned to support the Advocacy team in furthering the organization’s mission.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WITH:

• A knowledge and understanding of antisemitism both historical and modern, and the ability to speak about it intelligently and with nuance.
• Strong interest in and knowledge of Jewish human rights issues; discrimination and hate; and antisemitism advocacy.
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple, competing priorities simultaneously.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire clients and partners.
• Proven ability to work creatively and analytically in a problem-solving environment demonstrating teamwork, innovation and excellence.
• Self-motivated and decisive with the ability to adapt to change and competing demands.

WHAT YOU BRING:

• Nearing graduation or recent graduate of a relevant undergraduate or graduate program (i.e. Political Science, International Relations, Jewish Studies, Human Rights).
• Previous experience in advocacy, research, or related fields is considered an asset.

BENEFITS:

• This position will work onsite, out of FSWC’s physical office location in Toronto, Canada Monday – Thursday, with ability to work remotely on Fridays.
• Gain valuable experience in Jewish community advocacy and human rights.
• Work closely with experience advocates and professionals in the field.
• Networking opportunities with leaders in the Jewish community and human rights organizations.

HOW TO APPLY: 

Does this role sound like a good match for you? Please take the time to tell us about yourself in a cover letter and how you are a good fit for this role. Please submit your cover letter along with your resume by the end of the day on Sunday, February 23^rd, 2025.

We thank all applicants, but please note that only qualified candidates being considered for an interview will be contacted.

FSWC welcomes applications from all qualified individuals. We encourage applications from individuals within the employment equity categories. FSWC is committed to equity and diversity, and to a positive, supportive working environment. Please let us know should you require accommodation during any part of this recruitment process.