October 31, 2018 – Sarasota– AJC (American Jewish Committee) and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is urging theSarasota/Manatee Jewish community, as well as civic and religious leaders, to flock to synagogues on Friday night and Saturday, November 2-3. The #ShowUpForShabbat initiative was launched by AJC after the horrific attack at Tree of Life Or L’Simcha Congregation in Pittsburgh, which left 11 Jewish worshipers dead and another six people wounded.
The AJC, West Coast Florida’s initiative, is part of a nationwide effort by the American Jewish Committee, a leading global advocacy organization, to fill synagogues in a demonstration of solidarity and unity against anti-Semitism and hate. The Jewish Federations of North America is also partnering with AJC on this initiative, encouraging Jews and non-Jews to attend Shabbat services.
“We must speak out and stand up against those who target Jews. Coming to synagogue this Shabbat will send a clear, strong message that Jews are not afraid at all,” said AJC Regional Director, Brian Lipton. “And we also know today that Jews are not alone. In our country, in our city, elected officials as well as other faith and ethnic communities recognize that an attack on any faith is clearly an attack on all faiths.”
“We are hoping for a groundswell of support from the local community,” said Howard Tevlowitz, the Federation’s chief executive officer. “Synagogues are being called on to welcome the anticipated influx of attendees with explanatory programming and rabbis are being asked to dedicate their sermons to discussing the initiative.”
Social media users are encouraged to tweet and post about their plans to attend Shabbat services this weekend using the hastag #ShowUpForShabbat.
About AJC
AJC is the leading global Jewish advocacy organization, with unparalleled access to diplomats, government officials, and religious leaders around the world. As a result, AJC explores issues in depth, maintains relationships with many of the world’s key decision-makers, and seeks to have an impact on opinion and policy at the highest levels. For more information, call 941-365-4955 or visit www.ajc.org
About The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to save Jewish lives and enhance Jewish life in the Sarasota-Manatee region, in Israel, and throughout the world. In addition, the Federation is responsive when worldwide catastrophes occur. For more information, call 941-371-4546 or visit www.jfedsrq.org