New York, NY — Betsy Berns Korn, Chair, and William C. Daroff, CEO, of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, issued the following statement:
We are alarmed by the attack at Temple Israel in suburban Detroit that prompted an active shooter response by law enforcement. We are grateful to law enforcement and security personnel for their swift response, and we pray for the safety and well-being of everyone inside the synagogue at the time of the incident.
Jewish communities must be able to gather, pray, and live in safety and without fear. An attack targeting a synagogue is an assault on the fundamental right to religious freedom and on the ability of Jews to practice their faith openly and securely.
We are reminded once again that rhetoric matters. When slogans such as “globalize the intifada,” or other language that demonizes or threatens Jews, circulate unchecked, words carry consequences and help fuel the climate that endangers Jewish communities.
We stand in solidarity with the congregation of Temple Israel and the broader Michigan Jewish community.
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The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations is the recognized central coordinating body representing 50 national Jewish organizations on issues of national and international concern. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the positions of all member organizations.
