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By Myra Clark-Siegel, AJC Westchester/Fairfield Regional Director

As the Jewish High Holidays approach, we find ourselves reflecting not only on personal renewal but also on the broader challenges facing our community today, most notably the alarming rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment. This period of introspection—encompassing the Yamim Noraim – Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur—offers a crucial opportunity for us to confront these issues head-on and to educate not just ourselves, but also our leaders, educators, and young people about the dangers of such hatred. 

Now the date of October 7, Simchat Torah/Shemini Atzeret and Shabbat, all rolled into one, is forever seared on our hearts and our souls. As I write this, 101 hostages are still being held hostage in Gaza, stolen from their homes. 

The High Holidays also teach us the importance of standing firm in one’s identity and values. These tenets provide a powerful framework for tackling the disturbing trends of antisemitism andhostility towards Israel.

In recent years, the holidays have taken on an additional layer of significance as Jewish communities worldwide have witnessed a surge in antisemitic incidents and a growing tide of anti-Israel rhetoric. These expressions of hatred not only endanger Jewish individuals but also seek to undermine the legitimacy of the Jewish state, thereby affecting Jews globally. The impact is palpable — from vandalism and harassment to violent attacks and discriminatory movements aimed at isolating Israel.

We know from history and law enforcement data that when the Jewish community is under attack, it is not long before other minority communities are also under threat. Addressing this rise requires a multi-faceted approach. Education is our most potent tool. By educating ourselves, our children, and especially those who shape young minds — teachers, school officials, and campus administrators — we can counter ignorance with facts and empathy. 

This educational mission must include a clear, factual recounting of Jewish history and the complex realities of the Middle East. It should also provide the tools to critically analyze rhetoric and recognize bias. Moreover, we need to ensure that our teens are prepared to face and counteract antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiments, whether in high school corridors, college campuses, or online spaces. 

Empowering them with knowledge about their heritage and the skills to engage in informed  dialogue is crucial.

Our officials, too, need to be part of this educational journey. From school superintendents to principals to higher education administrators, it’s vital that leaders understand the nuances of antisemitism and the forms it can take, including when criticism of Israel crosses into antisemitic territory. This understanding is essential not only for creating policies that protect Jewish students and families but also for fostering an inclusive environment where all students can learn free from fear, harassment, or discrimination.

As we enter this sacred time of the Jewish calendar, let us commit to making education a priority — to safeguard our community, challenge bigotry, and ensure that the values of tolerance and justice are upheld. In doing so, we honor not only the spirit of the High Holidays but also our responsibilities to each other in a pluralistic society.

AJC has tools and resources for parents, high school and college students, school/campus administrators, corporations, and government officials to help ensure that the Jewish community is safe, all available at AJC.org. Better yet, reach out to us at westchester@ajc.org to learn how to stand up for the Jewish community. 

Together, we can be informed and prepared parents and students, and we can urge our leaders to do more – and do better – to ensure that the Jewish community feels safe and can thrive.Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy, Healthy, and Peaceful New Year. I hope that by the time I write this all of our hostages are home safely with their families. #BringThemHomeNow 

Myra Clark-Siegel is AJC Westchester/Fairfield regional director. To get involved or request an AJC speaker: AJC@westchester.org.