As Hanukkah wrapped up, Jewish leaders in Maryland expressed hope for a more peaceful year following a series of antisemitic incidents both locally and globally.
Howard Libit, executive director of the Baltimore Jewish Council, said, “It definitely leaves us on edge. We’re more concerned about security than ever.” Libit reflected on recent troubling events, including the killing of 15 people in Australia last week and antisemitic incidents in the Baltimore area.
Despite these challenges, Libit emphasized the community’s resilience. “We’re not going to run away and be intimidated. We have to stand up to it,” Libit said. “We have to invest in security. We have to be determined. We have to be careful, but we are not going to run away. Because if we run away, then they win, and we can’t let that happen.”
In August, an Israeli-owned business in Baltimore County was vandalized. Jonathan Wagoner was convicted and sentenced to three years probation for splashing red paint on Israeli flags outside Kitchen Design by Idan. The business owner expressed disappointment, saying, “The biggest problem that I have with this whole transaction, I’ll call it, is the fact that Mr. Wagner, who is the person that was charged and admitted his guilt, didn’t show any remorse. Didn’t ask forgiveness, didn’t say that he was sorry.
In July, the Anti-Defamation League filed a complaint against Baltimore City Public Schools, alleging the system allowed schools to become hostile environments for Jewish students. Baltimore City Councilman Isaac “Yitzy” Schleifer said, “Especially since Oct. 7, there’s been an uptick in antisemitic incidents, not just in the school system but across the city as a whole, and it’s quite concerning.”
Despite the challenges, Libit remained optimistic. “At the end of the day, we have to continue to celebrate the joys of our faith. We can’t let it get to us. The joys are too important to be intimidated,” he said.
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