Anti-Semitism

We are pleased to share with you this story that appeared recently in the Wall Street Journal that highlights some of the important work we do rescuing and helping Jews at risk around the world. Thanks to the support of many in our community, the Jewish Federation helped in the rescue of these persecuted Jews in Yemen. Your contribution makes a difference. Thank you.

Jewish Federation’s role to address and solve community problems was evident at Hate Crimes and Discrimination in the Northwest, a symposium for elected officials and their staff held on October 15.

The goal of the symposium was to explore and discuss with elected officials and their staff a wide range of issues concerning hate and discrimination. The symposium was split into three parts:

Opening statements are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, October 21 in the second trial of Naveed Haq, who on July 28, 2006, forced his way into the downtown offices of the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle and opened fire, killing Pamela Waechter and wounding five other women: Layla Bush, Carol Goldman, Dayna Klein, Christina Rexroad and Cheryl Stumbo. While there is no argument that he committed the acts, the first trial ended in a mistrial.

Richard Fruchter, the President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle, released the following statement:

Opening statements are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, October 21 in the second trial of Naveed Haq who on July 28, 2006, forced his way into our downtown offices and opened fire, killing our campaign director Pamela Waechter and wounding five other women: Layla Bush, Carol Goldman, Dayna Klein, Christina Rexroad and Cheryl Stumbo. While there is no argument that he committed the acts, the first trial ended in a mistrial.

By Mark Rahner, Seattle Times.

Maybe looking at a tree grown from the one Anne Frank stared at through the window of her hiding place will lend some perspective amid the country's "festering of hatred, the lack of tolerance," said Holocaust survivor Pete Metzelaar, citing current extremes in public demonstrations and the media.

Maybe it will serve as a reminder that "any community is in danger of falling into intolerance," said Ilana Kennedy, director of education at the Washington State Holocaust Education Resource Center.

When something like graffiti swastikas appears, it raises concern and nerves throughout our community. Increased vigilance is important, as is staying informed as much as possible. That is why we have started SAFE Washington with ADL, Temple De Hirsch Sinai and SCN Network. SAFE Washington includes a communications system that sends important, timely alerts regarding natural and man-made disasters and dangers to local organizational leaders. This keeps the community informed on a timely basis with official information from law enforcement and other government source.

Note from Richard

The recent anti-Semitic vandalism at Bikur Cholim-Machzikay Hadath and the Sephardic Bikur Holim synagogues is a reminder of the hatred some feel toward the Jewish people. Was it a coincidence that the painted swastikas appeared as we are approaching the High Holidays and on the first appearance in the Seattle Times of information about the Haq trial? Regardless of the intent, the result is rattled nerves but also heightened awareness in the Jewish community.

Sadly we have been here before—and we are prepared. With a strong communication network, regular security trainings and open lines of communication with the police, we are doing all we can as a community to stay vigilant. Learn more about Safe Washington.

None of us should pretend that anti-Semitism does not exist. But neither should we stop expressing or celebrating our Judaism.