Creating a SAFE Washington

When something like graffiti swastikas appears, it raises concern and nerves throughout our community. Increased vigilance is important, as is staying informed as much as possible. That is why we have started SAFE Washington with ADL, Temple De Hirsch Sinai and SCN Network. SAFE Washington includes a communications system that sends important, timely alerts regarding natural and man-made disasters and dangers to local organizational leaders. This keeps the community informed on a timely basis with official information from law enforcement and other government source.

External communication with and from the Jewish community allows the impact of acts of hate to serve as an educational opportunity as well. We applaud the Washington State Holocaust Education and Resource Center for their spot on Op-Ed, Swastikas painted on Seattle synagogues highlight need for education, tolerance in the Seattle Times late last week.

Thank you also to the Washington Interfaith Disaster Recovery Organization for their resolution condemning the recent hate graffiti.

Of course, our hearts continue to go out to the congregations of Bikur Cholim-Machzikay Hadath and Sephardic Bikur Holim where the graffiti appeared.