Dear JCOGS family,
The war between Israel and Gaza has had terrible implications on Jews around the world as antisemitism has gained great force over these past weeks. Again, Jews are being targeted for simply being Jewish. Yet another twisted form of antisemitism has come to fruition, using the State of Israel’s existence as an excuse to harm Jews around the world. On Twitter, at protests, in restaurants, including harassment, vandalism, and violence, even in our own Vermont communities, there is cause to stand up with others to ensure our fellow Jews are safe and secure.
To make sure that our community is responding accordingly, here are a few resources:
- Watch yesterday’s Day of Action Against Antisemitism, which includes hearing from prominent government officials, Jewish community leaders, civil rights advocates, celebrities, and others to demand action.
- Join the Secure Community Network on June 3 at Noon to learn how to improve awareness of your surroundings as well as report and react to situations for better safety.
- Report incidents of antisemitism to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).
In addition, these past few weeks have unleashed a wave of antisemitism against Jewish students online and on campuses that have left many feeling alone, threatened, and alienated. The Jewish Communities of Vermont is requesting support for the 2500 Jewish college students at UVM and hundreds more throughout the state with a letter writing campaign to make them feel welcome, safe, and supported. Send a message of hope from one Vermonter to another. They need to know they are surrounded by a Jewish community in our state that supports them against antisemitic hate. Fill out this form to share your message or email to rick@jcvt.org.
After receiving a request from St. John’s in the Mountains Episcopal Church last week, JCOGS approved their use of our tent on Sunday mornings throughout the summer to host their services. Two years ago, after the brutal Hanukkah stabbing in Monsey, NJ, and a slew of other antisemitic incidents at that time, Father Rick Swanson of St. John's hosted a gathering in solidarity with JCOGS. He also spoke at the memorial service after the Pittsburgh shooting, and along with about a dozen other clergy and over a hundred community members, came to perform a song of uplift at Spruce Peak. One of the surest ways of combating antisemitism and all forms of racism and bigotry is by building partnerships and friendships in our broad community to support one another always, including in our times of need.
Another way to combat antisemitism is by creating a vibrant, prominent Jewish community right here in north-central Vermont. It was nothing short of magical last Friday night as we gathered in person for the first time in over a year. Spontaneous clapping and dancing erupted as a sense of elation overtook us. Those who joined us on Zoom relayed that they continued to feel a part of the congregation and loved hearing the harmonies of those who gathered in person. One of the more moving moments was when we all waved to the Stowe Police with our gratitude as they continued to survey the area.
Based on the changing state guidelines, we are now allowing up to 75 people spaced out in our big tent, and those who are vaccinated are not required to wear masks (though they can if they feel more comfortable doing so). On June 4, alongside adults, we will welcome families and youth back to our services. Last Friday was hot, tonight will be cool, so make sure to dress appropriately for the changing Vermont spring. I hope you will join us tonight or soon for services, or at one of our upcoming Kibbitz Conversations to reconnect.
Finally, a member shared this powerful 2-minute video with me. It may make you cry, as it did for me.
Tihiyu bri’im, may we all feel safe and secure within our communities. Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi David
