Overview

• Second Cup Canada announced the immediate termination of a Montreal franchisee's contract after reviewing videos showing the individual performing a Nazi salute and making antisemitic remarks at a protest.
• The incidents occurred during a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside Concordia University, with the franchisee's actions widely condemned for their hateful nature.
• Two café locations operated by the franchisee at Montreal's Jewish General Hospital have been shut down, with plans to reopen under new management while retaining current staff.
• The health authority overseeing the hospital and multiple political leaders have expressed support for Second Cup's swift action and denounced antisemitism in all forms.
• The protests, which included calls for divestment from companies tied to Israel, have heightened tensions in Montreal, with some demonstrations turning violent and drawing criticism from across the political spectrum.