The Bergen County Jewish Action Committee has sounded the alarm over an impending protest to take place this weekend at a synagogue in northern New Jersey.
Congregation Keter Torah in Teaneck, N.J., plans to hold an event on March 10 focusing on Israeli real estate. In response, anti-Israel activists have made public calls for protests in the bedroom community that has a large Jewish population, including a significant Orthodox presence.
“It is no coincidence that this random, quiet New Jersey town has become such a flashpoint for pro-Palestinian activism. These protesters are here because we are here,” committee spokesman Yigal Gross said. “They are seeking out and targeting Teaneck’s Jews.”
Gross said the group supported freedom of speech, “but the right to worship is equally sacrosanct, which we worry they are now seeking to limit. Targeting religious institutions, particularly during times when families and children are gathering, represents an increased threat and creates a situation that could easily escalate and get out of hand.”
He disputed that the protesters were representative of Teaneck. “We believe there are bad actors trying to drive a wedge between Teaneck’s residents, and to isolate and intimidate its Jewish community. Thankfully, they are failing in their efforts. Our community continues to stand strong and proud,” he said.
