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Unfortunately, the hateful virus of antisemitism has been the topic of many recent conversations.  As these conversations come up in the news, or in our lives, we can be at a loss for words. We might feel uncomfortable or scared or triggered. Despite all the years of antisemitism, at times we still do not know what is the “right” way to respond.

In this week's parasha Va’era, we read of the Egyptians who watched as the Israelties suffered in slavery, and benefited from the labor of slaves. They saw their suffering and affliction, and they chose not to intervene. Like Pharaoh, they hardened their hearts and they chose to follow what everyone else was doing. Hence, the oft-cited quote: “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing.”

After all, the worst thing is to do nothing at all. The worst thing is to harden our own hearts, to become desensitized to the plague of hatred and ignorance, to imagine that others will take up the task. Here at Temple Sinai, we are trying to navigate this difficult landscape and stand committed to always tackling antisemitism unabashedly.

Our Addressing Antisemitism Taskforce, led by LaWana Streger and Emily Webb, has organized many significant events. We recently spearheaded a training for Teens & Parents, led an episode on our Seeking Sinai podcast with the ADL and AJC, hosted Beth Kean, CEO of the Holocaust Museum of Los Angeles as well as several other initiatives. We will not remain indifferent to such a toxic hatred, and we will continue to act.

And so, this Shabbat we are privileged to host Brendan Murphy on our bima, as he helps guide us on this path of combating antisemitism. Mr. Murphy is a Star of the Atlanta community, and teaches at the Marist School in Brookhaven. His most popular course: “History and the Holocaust,” has shaped the way countless learners understand the Holocaust.

Mr. Murphy has been awarded many times for his work. Whether the outstanding Educator Award from the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect or the Abe Goldstein Human Relations Award from the ADL, we are the grateful beneficiaries of his years of knowledge and activism. 

We welcome Mr. Murphy as we strive to keep the conversation going and combat this age-old hatred. Though we know we may never stamp out hatred and ignorance, that does not impact our need to try. As our tradition teaches, “We are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are we free to desist from it.” Together, we continue the sacred work of ensuring the safety and prosperity of the Jewish people. We hope you will join us for Shabbat Services for this meaningful service, and to learn from Mr. Murphy.

Shabbat Shalom.