Toronto’s “Walk for Israel” parade drew about 60,000 participants Sunday in the largest ever rally in its 57-year history, according to the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto.

The Federation said the rally was attended by officials at all levels of government and “again transformed the streets of midtown Toronto into a vibrant celebration of Jewish pride, community and connection.”

“This year’s Walk with Israel was a remarkable demonstration of the strength, resilience and unity of our community,” said Ken Tanenbaum, chair of the Federation’s board. “Today sent a clear message: We stand together with pride, strength and determination. We are grateful to be joined by so many friends and allies.”

“This turnout speaks to the deep connection our community feels to Israel and to one another,” he added.

“We walk for peace, justice, pluralism and the right of every person to thrive in a Toronto that is welcoming, tolerant and safe for all,” stated Brad Bradford, a mayoral candidate and member of the Toronto City Council. “To Toronto’s Jewish community: I stand with you, and I will walk alongside you today and every day.”

“What we witnessed today was an extraordinary expression of solidarity, Jewish pride and hope,” said Adam Minsky, president and CEO of the Federation.

“Tens of thousands of people chose to come together publicly and proudly in support of our community, our values and our connection to Israel,” he added. “Today was a powerful reminder that hate will not define us. We choose unity over division, connection over fear and hope over hate.”

The rally kept Toronto Police busy, with five arrests made altogether thus far and with police assiduously pushing protesters back who attempted to breach the generous buffer zone intended to prevent a repeat of last year’s “Gauntlet of Hate,” when rallygoers were forced to march between rows of protesters shouting incitement and harassment.