The attack on Israel is a devastating blow for the Jewish people across the world. Not only was it planned a day after the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, but it was also timed during the Jewish Holiday of Simchat Torah. A day that is supposed to be full of celebration as we honor the Torah scrolls in our community. These recent events highlight a consistent theme of Jewish life: Holy days and celebrations have become desecrated by violence. They become characterized by apprehension for the safety of our community and loved ones.
This attack caps what has been an incredibly difficult year for the Jewish people. The Anti-Defamation League announced that 2022 was the highest year on record for antisemitic incidents in our country, a 36% increase from 2021. If that isn’t bad enough, news has just broke that the genetic testing company 23andMe was hacked, and a million Ashkenazi Jews’ genetic and personal information was released to the internet by the hackers.
If you are wondering if there is anything you can do, there is. In the U.S., Judaism, like all religions, is protected by the First Amendment. And in Anchorage, Judaism, alongside all other religions is protected by Title 5. The First Amendment and Title 5 should have every person’s unwavering support. These pieces of legislation offer marginalized groups and minorities protections that most people take for granted. Celebrating and upholding these laws goes a long way to supporting vulnerable members of our community.
But there is still more to do. If you encounter people who profess hate or ignorance towards the Jewish people, then speak up. Counter-speech is one of the most effective forms of preventing antisemitism. Letting people say hateful things without countering them enables their behavior. Public discourse should be respectful and civil. Whether you are Jewish or not, you should not let people speaking ill of others go unchecked.
In our tradition, we sing a song called ‘Oseh Shalom.’ In this song is a prayer that states, “May the one makes peace in the heavens make peace for us, all Israel and all who inhabit the Earth. Amen.”
— Rabbi Abram Goodstein
Congregation Beth Sholom
Anchorage
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