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Statement on Hanukkah Antisemitic Attacks

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Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are heartsick once again to learn of the recent spate of antisemitic attacks against members of the New York Jewish community. Coming during Hanukkah, our holiday of light, hope, and visibility, it is especially painful to think of the fear these attacks instill in all of us. We offer prayers for healing, both physical and spiritual, to the communities of Monsey, New York City, and Jersey City, with special attention to those most recently wounded and their families: Yosef ben Perel, Shlomo ben Vittel, Naftali Tzvi ben Vittel, Naftula Tzvi Ben Gila and Meyer Yehosef ben Vittel. 

We recognize that hate does not arise in a vacuum and does not spread with impunity unless encouraged to do so by those in the highest echelons of power. We call on the Trump Administration and others in power to condemn the rising tide of antisemitism, racism, Islamophobia and all forms of hate immediately and in the strongest way possible.  

We are grateful for the many allies who have reached out to the Jewish community at this time and we are committed to remaining in solidarity with all victims of white supremacy and hatred and with those who are combating these scourges. May the last lights of the Hanukkah festival continue to shine hope, joy and light in this time of increased anxiety and fear.