A rabbi at Temple Beth Sholom recently delivered a direct message to his congregation on a Saturday morning, highlighting the growing threat of political anti-Zionism to the Jewish community. He explained his decision to join 1,200 rabbis nationwide in signing a letter that rejects this ideology.
The Urgent Message to the Congregation
The rabbi emphasized that the Jewish community refuses to remain silent. Members plan to speak out clearly and take bold actions to counter security threats. Politicians across the nation campaign on platforms that avoid condemning violent rhetoric targeting Jews, deny a Jewish state’s right to exist in its ancestral homeland, and accuse Israel of genocide. Such positions create an atmosphere where antisemitism spreads and encourages those intent on harm.
A Personal Threat Emerges
Days after the address, the rabbi received a threatening voicemail, one of several incidents affecting Jewish communities globally. The caller declared, “You’re un-American. Get out! We want you mother(expletive) scum out.” This attack targeted his identity rather than his opinions, underscoring how modern antisemitism often masquerades as calls for justice or free speech. Its goal remains intimidation and suppression.
Balancing Identity and Resolve
American Jews navigate pride in national freedoms alongside the duty to safeguard their community. They hold onto historical exile while seeking belonging. In the face of hate, the choice stands clear: retreat or stand firm. History proves silence fails to shield Jews—or anyone—from erasure.
Defending Dialogue and Dignity
Combating antisemitism involves ensuring debates rest on truth and respect, not rage or dehumanization. Labeling a Jewish leader “un-American” for prioritizing community safety distorts core Jewish and American principles. Threats carry severe impacts: they undermine public discourse, endanger institutions, demand heavy security investments, and deter public participation.
A Call for Unity and Action
Responses demand consistency—document threats, bolster security, and uphold civil debate as democracy’s foundation. Communities of all backgrounds must unite against intimidation, as societies tolerating one group’s dehumanization doom everyone. Policy debates thrive in America, but they must never veer into hatred, harassment, or violence.
Las Vegas’ Jewish community, like others nationwide, vows to persist. Faith in truth and moral clarity drives them forward. Antisemitism feeds on fear, but unity, resolve, and outspokenness defeat bigotry.
