The swastikas painted in MetroWest are more than an attack on our Jewish community. This act of hate is an attack on the values of our region. — and our Jewish voices must not rise alone in opposition.
When I made the decision to study to be a rabbi, it was out of love for Judaism. It was because I wanted to delve deeper into the study of Jewish texts and because I wanted to build a community.
When I made the life-affirming decision more than two decades ago to embark on this journey, I did not think about the role of the rabbi as the person who would have to respond to anti-Semitic incidents around the corner of the synagogue. I didn't think about the rabbi's need to comfort and reassure a community facing rising levels of anti-Semitism. I certainly didn't think about the number of meetings and security briefings he would have to attend.
Since October 7, my role as rabbi — and the focus of my work — has had to change drastically as a result of the events in Israel and Gaza, and the impact this is having on the Jewish community here in the United States. The Hamas terrorist attack and the Israeli army's response have unleashed a torrent of anti-Semitism in this country. According to the Anti-Defamation LeagueAnti-Semitic incidents increased more than 300% compared to the same period last year, with an average of 28 incidents reported daily.
