Standing Together Against Anti-Semitism - A Message from our Chair, Larren M. Nashelsky
Standing Together Against Anti-Semitism - A Message from our Chair, Larren M. Nashelsky
The diversity of our community is one of our great strengths. And when members of our community encounter discrimination, prejudice, fear, and intimidation, we raise our voices.
The dramatic rise of attacks against Jewish people and institutions over the last several weeks is but the latest sickening reminder of the necessity to speak out against hate and injustice. Our hearts go out to every Jewish person who has felt the brunt of these actions and the resultant fear they have caused. Such abhorrent conduct has no place in a civilized society.
Anti-Semitism is despicable and must be condemned in all its forms. As with any type of violence or action against a person based on their identity, the targeting of Jewish people, places of worship, schools, and other institutions is unacceptable. The fabric of our society is only as strong as our ability to protect each of its members. The Jewish community is no exception.
In the words of the great Jewish thinker and writer Elie Wiesel, “We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.” Mindful of that call to action, we stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and denounce anti-Semitism and call on others to stand with us.