I hope you’ve had a good week. This Sunday marks six months since the biggest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. The devastation on October 7, at the hands of Hamas, was barbaric and unconscionable. As a community, we still mourn the tremendous loss of life that day. And our devastation continues knowing that 130 hostages remain in captivity.

The last six months have changed many things for the Jewish people, not just in Israel, but here at home. It cannot be disputed that we have seen a rise in antisemitism in our country over the last six months, and that Rhode Island has not been immune from this. We’ve experienced non-credible bomb threats designed to intimidate and disrupt our way of life. We’ve seen and heard awful things said about the Jewish people online and in protests. I know many in our community have had friends or neighbors say things that make them question their relationship for the first time. And all of this takes a toll.

At the Alliance, we are exploring ways to address this. To address the trauma our community is feeling still, six months after the attack. And to address what I continue to hear from people: for the first time in their lives, as a member of the Jewish community, they worry about their personal safety in everyday settings. Long before October 7, the Alliance has been working to address antisemitism in our state, and to create better understanding about our community. We’ve worked with business leaders, government leaders, and people throughout Rhode Island to make sure our state is safe for everyone. But we can and will do more.

While it certainly feels like things have gotten worse over the last six months, it’s important to remember that we are not alone. In the toughest moments, I think about all those who stood with us at the JCC during October’s vigil. Those that mourned with us and comforted us. I think about those outside of the Jewish community who still comfort us. The neighbors who have checked in on us. The clergy who provide comfort and continue to meet the growing spiritual needs of our community. The politicians who proudly wear US/Israeli lapel pins. In these tough moments, when the loudest people get the most attention, we must remember that we are not alone. That many continue to stand with us, to make sure Rhode Island is a place where we can all safely call home.

Until next time, I wish you a safe, peaceful, and joyous Shabbat.

Shabbat Shalom,
Adam Greenman
President & CEO