US Jewish Communities Face Heightened Antisemitism During High Holy Days

As the Jewish community in the United States approaches the High Holy Days beginning on September 22 with Rosh Hashana, there is a heightened sense of anxiety due to a recent surge in antisemitic incidents, including deadly attacks earlier in the year such as the firebombing of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's home and the fatal shooting of Israeli Embassy staffers in Washington. Despite these threats and a climate described as "hate-filled," many Jewish congregants are determined to come together to worship and affirm their identity, with security concerns paramount but not deterring attendance. Leaders including Rabbi Rick Jacobs of the Union for Reform Judaism and Rabbi Erez Sherman of Sinai Temple in Los Angeles emphasize the precariousness of the moment but also the community's resilience and pride. The Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor also voices a mix of worry and hope, hoping for an end to conflict in Israel and restored interfaith harmony locally. Overall, the High Holy Days this year are marked by a powerful combination of fear, determination, and the desire for communal solidarity and healing amid a challenging national atmosphere.