The cold hard facts surrounding February

February made me shiver. Yes it was a cold month. But worse, it was a month of unneeded and unwarranted tragedies. While the world was calling actions in Europe anti-Semitic, a small out-of-the-way school in West Warwick was vandalized only because it serves the Islamic community in our state. And, the terror organization known as ISIS, brutally killed a number of people in Libya and Jordan. So much hate and heartless cruelty to fellow human beings.

The Copenhagen terrorist attacks were reminiscent of what had happened in Paris in January. The Jewish community worldwide is concerned that Europe may return to the days of Nazism, leaving six million Jews dead as fears of anti-Semitism spread on the continent. As such, Jews in Europe are considering packing their bags and moving to where they can live in peace.

While anti-Semitism today is a major problem in Europe, it is also a problem in our country as well, including in Rhode Island. Schools and synagogues are defaced as are bus stops and commercial buildings. Most of us have been the victims of slurs that were anti-Semitic in nature.  Some of us may very well have been bullied because of our Jewish faith. Our brothers and sisters in Europe are not unique.

But Jews are not the only people being bullied and attacked in our state and country. Just over a week ago, the Islamic School of Rhode Island was the victim of hate. Disgusting words and slogans were painted on the building. The media described the incident as “heinous.” They further reported that the FBI was investigating this possible “hate crime.”

Upon hearing of this incident, leaders of the Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders gathered at the school to condemn this Islamophobic act. Rabbi Sarah Mack, president of the Board of Rabbis of Greater Rhode Island, eloquently denounced the desecration of the school. Rev. Dr. Donald Anderson, executive minister of the Rhode Island State Council of Churches, expressed his outrage and along with Imam Farid Ansari and Mufti Ikram, leaders of the Muslim community, said that the defacement of the school brought our communities closer together.

Jews living in the diaspora, in Europe and the U.S., know we are welcome in Israel. Sensing their fear, Israel’s prime minister reminded the Jews of Europe that they are welcome to move to Israel where they can indeed live in peace. It was a gracious offer. We know Israel is a safe haven. And, we know it is always an option, especially when anti-Semitism erupts in our cities and countries. But, should we simply give up, and leave behind our lives, friends and history without first trying to rectify the situation? I do not think so.

Nobody should have to run away.

Anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and the hatred of other minorities is a civil rights issue. As such Jews, Muslims and other oppressed and marginalized people worldwide should react by voicing their concerns. Our voices must be heard. We need to tell our governments and community leaders to protect everyone from injustice. We all have a responsibility to express our outrage to all governments and their leaders worldwide. We should contact the embassies of countries where anti-Semitism and other hate and prejudice are a growing concern.

There should also be a call for worldwide action against this form of prejudice and hate. Of course this would take time and commitment. However advocacy against hatred and bullying will more than likely have positive results.

All in all, February was a monstrous month for hate, bullying and prejudice. Sad. Sad indeed. We now have the opportunity and responsibility to let the world know this is unacceptable.

MARTY COOPER is the Community Relations director for the Jewish Alliance.