2021 set a new high for antisemitic incidents, with the coronavirus pandemic fueling a worldwide rise in antisemitism, according to a report of the U.S.-based Anti-Defamation League.  While these incidents decreased in 2022 in other countries, the ADL found that the number of antisemitic incidents in the U.S. increased by more than 35 percent in the past year, from 2,721 in 2021 to 3,697 in 2022.

In light of this data and a concern for our Jewish brothers and sisters, HARC will welcome a guest speaker (via Zoom) from the Anti-Defamation League for our May program to talk about the rise in antisemitism and antisemitic hate crimes, what’s causing it, and what people of faith can do to prevent antisemitism and other forms of hate based on faith. We will also have a time of lament and showing of solidarity with our Jewish friends in Washington County.

We suspect that hate crimes have increased for other groups as well, so while this program is specifically focused on antisemitism, we hope the information learned will be applicable to other incidences of hate in our community and country.

Join us for lunch and fellowship, followed by the program.  Lunch will be provided by our host, Congregation B’Nai Abraham with a free-will offering basket.  RSVP requested by Friday, May 5 at noon so we can get a count for lunch.

Parking can be found on Baltimore Street or in the Library parking lot.  A few handicap accessible spaces are available in the small lot next to the synagogue.  Entrance is from the back of the parking lot, through the gate, and into the fellowship room at the back of the synagogue.

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HARC meetings are typically held on the 2nd Tuesday of every month for lunch, except July and August, with an occasional evening meeting.  When meeting in-person, the location typically rotates among different houses of faith, giving different congregations and organizations an opportunity to host.  Some meetings will be recorded for later viewing, as we are able and the subject allows.