Rabbi Weill's Blog

Dear Friends,

Our nation has witnessed recently a cluster of hate-fueled incidents, both against Jewish institutions and against Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s). Meanwhile, neo-Nazis gathered publicly this past week in Boston and in Orlando.

While we ought to be vigilant, we should also maintain perspective. These incidents are infrequent, and while we should be smart about security (and we are at EHNT), we should not be frightened.

We should also seek partners beyond the Jewish community. When we learn of anti-Semitic acts, we may feel very much alone. But we are not. We have fellow travelers in this journey against prejudice. Imagine how it feels right now to be a student at – or a parent of a student at – an HBCU. Many of those institutions of higher learning – following bomb threats – have cancelled in-person classes. Haters hate broadly.

Following the recent anti-Semitic vandalism in West Rogers Park, I received messages of solidarity from fellow members of the Niles Township Clergy Forum. We have made it clear throughout the years that we are there for each other. With that in mind, remember that the Clergy Forum meets at Skokie Public Library for a brief vigil for peace, love, and kindness at 3 pm on the third Wednesday. All are welcome.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Jeffrey Weill