We are living in an alarming period of rising antisemitism in the United States. According to the Anti-Defamation League antisemitic incidents have increased from 2021 to 2022 in each of the major categories that they track:
- harassment: up 29%
- vandalism up 51%
- assaults: up 26%
These troubling statistics when coupled with increasingly “normalized” antisemitism from certain celebrities, the ongoing poisonous discourse on various social media platforms, as well as the increased presence of extremist antisemitic white supremacist groups – point to a sharp escalation of antisemitism in this country. You may remember that this past February 25 was designated by two U.S. antisemitic groups as a national “Day of Hate,” targeting Jewish communities.
The American Jewish community recognizes that it must mobilize itself to push back against this tide, by educating ourselves and our children about when and how to report antisemitic incidents, and by partnering with law enforcement and key governmental, social and religious organizations to allow them to help ensure our safety.
To help move us forward on this front, Temple B’nai Chaim, as part of its engagement with the ADL’s Kulanu / Antisemitism initiative, will hold a special Shabbat / Speaker Program on Friday April 21 (RSVP requested). Following that evening’s condensed Shabbat service, TBC colleagues who have been participating in our Antisemitism Action Group will provide us with an overview of the current state of antisemitism in the U.S., along with a summary of the positive steps that have been taken by national organizations, the U.S. government, Connecticut State government and local law enforcement to try to track antisemitism in all its forms and to help protect Jewish citizens and communities. They will also outline what we ourselves at TBC must now do to step up to these challenges.
A light supper will be served at 6:15 pm before the service; the service will begin at 7:00 pm and finish around 7:20 pm. Short presentations by TBC Kulanu participants will follow, with a time for questions at the end. Oneg to follow.
PLEASE NOTE: The program will be suitable for most 6th graders and up. Younger children are definitely encouraged to attend the pre-service dinner and shabbat service, after which they will be invited to move into the old sanctuary for movies, fun and games led by TBC madrichim.
Please make sure to RSVP as to whether you will join us for supper at 6:15 pm and stay for the service and program. Also indicate whether you will have children along to be entertained during the program part of the evening.
