BY RABBI JACK SHLACHTER
Los Alamos

As a rabbi, I am sadly and keenly aware of the appalling rise in antisemitism in this country and around the world. And as a human being, I mourn alongside our Muslim neighbors in the wake of the tragic event in San Diego on Monday. Beginning with my move to New York in 2019 and continuing after my return to Los Alamos,  I’ve been a member of the New York Board of Rabbis (NYBOR). Rather than try to express my own thoughts on the terrible shooting at the San Diego mosque, I reproduce here the message sent out by NYBOR earlier today and strongly encourage all of us to reflect on these words.

“No one should fear for their safety while praying in a house of worship, and no parent should fear sending their child to school. Our sanctuaries and our classrooms must remain places of safety, learning, comfort, and hope.

“We must be united in our sacred, shared belief in protecting human life and preserving the basic sense of security that every community deserves. We cannot accept a world where violence becomes routine in the places meant to nurture our spirits and educate our children. We need real changes that strengthen safety, deepen understanding, and reaffirm our shared responsibility to care for one another.

“We reject hatred, violence, and attempts to divide communities through fear. In moments like these, our response must be deeper solidarity, stronger relationships, and unwavering commitment to protecting one another.

“May the memories of those lost be a blessing, may the injured know healing, and may all communities be strengthened in courage, compassion, and shared humanity.”