Synagogues
in Fairfield County are on high alert Friday following an online threat against
Jewish houses of worship in New Jersey.
Federal
agents who apprehended that person say he did not have the means or motive to
carry out the threat, but that he harbored anger toward Jewish
people.
"This
moment is new with the threats rising, but at the same time, it’s been present
for us as Jews as long as we existed," said Rabbi Michael Friedman, of
Temple Israel in Westport. “How do you keep your doors open and be welcoming
and inclusive in an age when security has to be paramount and there are real
threats out there in the world?"
The
Anti-Defamation League says antisemitic incidents
are on the rise. There
was a 34% increase in antisemitic incidents in the United States last year.
It was 42% in Connecticut.
Security
measures have significantly increased at synagogues. Rabbi Evan Schultz, of Congregation B'Nai Israel, says he has
reassured congregants that everything has been done to keep the building safe
during services.
Friday
evening is the beginning of Shabbat, which is Judaism's day of rest. Although
synagogues across the state are on high alert, many say the way to fight
antisemitism is by gathering together and celebrating Jewish traditions.
“We
must come together for Shabbat, engage with our tradition, be together in our
community every single week. It’s deeply important to us,” he said.
Westport
police say they are increasing their police presence. The FBI Office in New
Haven tells News 12 it is continuing to combat hate crime incidents
while assisting local police departments with their needs.