Dear Friend,
Today, as Suffrage100MA recognizes Holocaust Remembrance Day, we are very concerned about the significant rise in antisemitic attacks in our local communities, across the nation and around the world targeting and terrorizing Jews.
This includes the tragic local stabbing of Rabbi Shlomo Noginski last summer in Brighton, MA, as well as the recent January hostage crisis at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, TX, the shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA, and far too many more. And according to the Anti-Defamation League, “crimes targeting the Jewish community consistently constitute over half of all religion-based crimes.”
As a Jewish woman with family members killed without a trace in the Holocaust, it is incredibly distressing that antisemitism is on the rise in the United States and abroad. Suffrage100MA is proud to stand with the courageous Jewish community including the many Jewish organizations that are Suffrage100M Partners, against hate crimes and encourages our supporters to oppose antisemitism and all forms of hate.
One heartening aspect of the harrowing attack in Texas was the solidarity of the interfaith community, particularly the Islamic community, which came together to support Congregation Beth Israel in its hours of need. This highlights the importance of ongoing work by organizations such as the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization, local interfaith groups, and interfaith groups around the country, to foster tolerance and understanding among different faiths, and to build a world where all marginalized groups can live in peace.
Today, we draw inspiration from the many remarkable heroines of the Holocaust. Women including Virginia Hall, an American amputee who became one of the greatest Allied spies against the Nazis during World War II; the Girl Scouts and Girl Guides who participated in the underground resistance in Europe and the Philippines; and, of course, young Anne Frank, who despite her unfathomable circumstances courageously stated, “In spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart”.
Suffrage100MA condemns hate in any form against any group or individuals, and extends strength and friendship to the Jewish community during these troubling times.
On behalf of the Board of Directors-
With deep appreciation to all of you for being on this journey with us,
Fredie Kay
Founder & President
January 27, 2022
March 2021