January 15, 2022
Dear Friends,
While you are likely following along with the horrifying hostage situation in Texas, for those who are not aware, a man demanding the release of convicted terrorist Aafia Siddiqui, entered Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas earlier today, during Shabbat services and took four hostages. This is an ongoing law enforcement operation, and the FBI, along with state and local law enforcement partners are actively attempting to resolve this situation peacefully. At present, Secure Community Network is coordinating with law enforcement and the Anti-Defamation League is on the ground in Colleyville to provide support to the community and working closely with the FBI to share information from ADL’s Center on Extremism. Currently, we are not aware of any credible threats to our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Congregation Beth Israel. We are offering the following resources and discussion guides on hate and extremism for those engaging in meaningful conversations with school-age children:
- Empowering Young People in the Aftermath of Hate (In English and en Español)
- Discussing Hate and Violence with Children
- Extreme Measures: How to Help Young People Counter Extremist Recruitment
- Table Talk: Islamophobia and Being an Ally
- Table Talk: Antisemitism Today
L’Shalom,
Jewish Federation of Delaware/Jewish Community Relations Committee (JCRC)jfdinfo@shalomdel.org | 302-427-2100
ADL Philadelphia | Philadelphia@adl.org | 215-568-2223