Hanukkah celebrations begin amid rise in antisemitic incidents

Hanukkah is one week away and many celebrations are beginning. However, a rise in antisemitism is causing concerns across the Jewish community.

The latest data from the Anti-Defamation League shows nearly 700 case increase in incidents deemed antisemitic from 2020 to 2021; 2021 was the highest year on record for documented reports of harassment, vandalism and violence against jews

Over 700 people joined a pre-Hanukkah celebration in Durham Sunday.

This celebration featured games, live sculpting, snow to play with and the lighting of an ice menorah.

Back in October, WRAL reported on an incident in North Raleigh where antisemitic flyers were discovered across neighborhoods.

Two other incidents happened earlier this year, once in August and again in January. We even reported on a Nazi flag that appeared on a Wake County property last year.

Rabbi Sholom Bluming told WRAL News it was important to host this celebration despite the recent increase in antisemitism.

“Antisemitism usually stems from ignorance, but when people see how jews work and they understand, they usually don’t hold or have the same agenda,“ said an attendee Sunday.

This was the first big gathering they’ve had since pre-pandemic. The Jewish community is focusing on spreading love and light.

“I think it’s shaky times. There’s a lot of people who are looking for anchors in the world," said Bluming. "I think post-pandemic it’s critical that we get back to our faith roots. Things that have nourished us over the years -each other."

Rabbi Bluming also said they’ve been able to give out hundreds of menorahs.