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A Message from Rabbi Prosnit on the Recent Acts of Antisemitic Violence 

06/04/2025 08:35:18 AM

Jun4

Rabbi Jon Prosnit

Dear Friends, – 

I write to you in the wake of the terrible act of antisemitic violence in Colorado last weekend. It is also on the heels of a rise in antisemitic attacks across the country, including the tragic murder of two young Jews in front of a Jewish museum in Washington, DC, two weeks ago.   

These attacks make Jews uneasy and unsafe and do nothing to bring about peace in Gaza and to help Palestinians. We will continue to pray for the victims of the attack in Boulder during our healing prayers this week.    

As always, we take matters of security remarkably seriously. We are in touch with local law enforcement, and we meet regularly with Ari Friedman, the executive director of the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network, to ensure the safety and security of Temple Beth El. There are no immediate threats to us or our property. As always, Madison Police Department officers will be present at our events and programs, including the outdoor Shabbat this Friday in Olbrich Park and the campfire Havdalah at the Goodman Campus on Saturday. 

We know many of you feel anxious and overwhelmed. This is an understandable response to the news of the last few weeks. We are not powerless, and the best way to respond to these acts of antisemitism is to continue to live a loving, open, and proud Jewish life.  As Jews have done throughout our history, when we keep walking as a community, we will get to the other side together. 

If you or your loved ones have any questions, please reach out to me or Stefanie Kushner. 

 

June 6, 2025 10 Sivan 5785