New Mexico Jewish communities concerned about threat of attacks during Passover

At a time when Jewish communities across New Mexico should be preparing for a major religious holiday, Passover, they are instead filled with concerns about their safety. The recent conflicts overseas have raised alarms in America, leading FBI Director Christopher Wray to announce potential threats to large Jewish gatherings during the upcoming holiday.

Since the major attack on Israel in October, the FBI has reported a significant increase in investigations into hate crimes against Jews in America, with the number tripling in recent months. Dr. Ron Duncan Hart, a respected author and director of the Institute for Tolerance Studies in Santa Fe, commented on the heightened state of alert, stating, “It’s unfortunate that we’re living with that in the United States.”

Sara Koplik, director of the Hillel House at the University of New Mexico, echoed these sentiments, noting, “This is something that we live with as Jewish people in the United States.” The anticipation of Passover, which is set to begin next week and last for eight days, has been overshadowed by concerns over safety and security.

Passover holds immense significance for Jewish communities, as it commemorates the liberation from bondage and the formation of a people. Despite the joyous nature of the holiday, many leaders in New Mexico’s Jewish community are grappling with the need for increased precautions in light of potential threats.

“It is deeply sad and devastating to have this level of violence and hatred directed towards our community,” Koplik expressed. Despite these challenges, she emphasized the importance of holding onto faith, traditions, and customs in the face of adversity.

While incidents of hate targeting Jews in New Mexico have been relatively less frequent compared to other states, the presence of any anti-Semitism is alarming. Dr. Duncan Hart emphasized the need for awareness and understanding, urging people to recognize the realities faced by the Jewish community when attending Synagogue.

In response to the heightened concerns, many Jewish organizations in New Mexico have opted to limit the dissemination of event information, resorting to word of mouth, texting, and physical bulletin boards to communicate with their members.

As Jewish communities in New Mexico prepare for Passover under a cloud of apprehension, the resilience and determination displayed in the face of fear and uncertainty serve as a testament to the unwavering spirit of unity and faith within the community. While the threat of attacks looms large, the commitment to upholding their traditions and beliefs remains steadfast in the hearts of New Mexico’s Jewish residents.

Written by staticwire