Local Communities Rise Against Antisemitism

By Marissa Jacobs '25 and Noga Arieh '25
This past Hanukkah, Maplewood and South Orange residents came together to light the menorah and celebrate the holiday. This lighting, an important symbol of unity, comes at a time of increasing antisemitism hitting the nation.

Rabbis of all denominations and congregations are joining together to spread awareness of the antisemitism that impedes religious freedom and acceptance. This unification comes at a time of many acts of violence and hate against Jews in society and on social media platforms. 
In 2017, antisemitic graffiti was found on the pedestrian bridge that crosses South Orange Avenue at the South Mountain Reservation. Antisemitic slurs, symbols and offensive language filled almost the entirety of the bridge.
This past December, a similar situation occurred in Livingston, with obscene art targeting the Jewish community. Additionally, antisemitic drawings were found at two different public schools in the district. 
“I felt very saddened considering the large population of Jews in the area, and how close to the home this was," said sophomore Ari Jacobs. "I was unaware of how prevalent antisemitism is in our community."
Antisemitic incidents also occurred in the Livingston school district, with at least three isolated violations in the first month of the 2022 school year alone. According to the Livingston School district, the earlier incidents were not reported until nearly two months later. Once informed, the superintendent of the district immediately launched an investigation in collaboration with the Livingston Police Department. 
As of December 2022, “One of the culprits has already been identified, and we believe we are close to identifying the culprit in the other investigation as well,” according to the LPD. 
The neighboring school district of Millburn released a broad statement in late 2021 regarding the rise in hate in local New Jersey communities and America as a whole. Millburn’s superintendent emphasized that “in light of concerns about a recent surge in hate crimes and antisemitism around the nation and in local communities, I want to remind you that the Millburn schools condemn and denounce hate and bias in any form.” 
This November, synagogues across NJ were struck with concern as they faced an online threat of violence. Synagogues throughout the state went into lockdown and law enforcement patrols increased around primarily Jewish neighborhoods and communities. An 18-year-old was arrested for spreading false threats and committing violence directed towards the Jewish community. 
Sophomore Shayne Cytrynbaum said, “I feel disappointed by this, but I am glad to know that our communities are hard at work to make sure everyone is safe, and those responsible for this antisemitism are held accountable.”
    Despite the increase in local antisemitic crimes, the Jewish community pushed back with unity and solidarity.