Texas Synagogue Hostage Attack

A Statement from Federation CEO, Judy Alperin

Shabbat should be a time of peace and joy. But this Shabbat, the Jewish community of Colleyville, Texas was attacked by an assailant who took hostages at area synagogue Congregation Beth Israel. We are grateful that the hostages are physically safe and we pray for their complete recovery from this trauma.

This situation is a sobering reminder that we must continue to combat and condemn antisemitism and all forms of hatred in America and across the globe. In addition, we wanted you to know the the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven also takes steps to help enhance the security of our community.

As you are all aware, just a few months ago, the Federation contracted with SCN, the nonprofit organization charged with safeguarding the security of the Jewish Community in North America, to hire a highly trained Regional Security Advisor to advise the Federation and all of the Jewish institutions in our region on security matters.

 
Our Regional Security Advisor, Mike Shanbrom, has been in regular contact with me as the situation unfolded yesterday. More importantly, he has reached out to all of our community Jewish organizations to update them on the crisis and to ensure that we are all being especially vigilant. Our history tells us that a hateful event in one area can often lead to hateful events elsewhere. In addition, Mike has also contacted our local law enforcement organizations to make sure that they are stepping up patrols and otherwise looking out for the Jewish community.

There are currently no credible threats in the community, but police visibility has been increased at our synagogues, schools, and Jewish organizations. We thank our partners in law enforcement for their support and their swift response today and as we continue to coordinate institutional security for our community.

SCN is not aware of any information to suggest there is a broader threat to the Jewish community at this time as it relates to this incident. SCN will continue to monitor the situation and provide any updates as necessary.

Hate matters. It has consequences. In the face of hate, our job as the Jewish people is to continue to be brave, be strong and be proud. Please join us in sending thoughts and prayers to all who suffered endured yesterday's crisis and for the safety of our communities.