December 1, 2025 — Boston
One hundred rabbis and cantors from congregations across Massachusetts "enthusiastically endorse” the work of the Massachusetts Special Commission on Combating Antisemitism in a public letter issued jointly by American Jewish Committee (AJC) New England and Anti-Defamation League (ADL) New England.
The letter urges state leaders to adopt a series of recommendations developed by the Commission to help people better understand antisemitism and stop its spread.
Antisemitic incidents in Massachusetts rose by more than 20% in 2024, and represented 84.4% of all religious-based hate crimes in the state, as documented in the Commission’s report. In the letter, Jewish clergy say they are being “called on with increasing frequency to support children, families, and individuals victimized by antisemitism.”
The letter voices support for the “thoughtful and comprehensive” measures developed by the Commission, which include mandatory anti-bias training for educators, strengthened Holocaust instruction, and expanded efforts to address “the ever-growing need to ensure physical safety and security at sacred spaces.”
It notes that “gone are the days of entering these spaces through open doors,” citing the extensive security now required following a series of lethal attacks on Jews in recent years, including the 2021 stabbing of Rabbi Shlomo Naginsky in Brighton.
“State, education, and community leaders must work together to make Massachusetts an inclusive and welcoming environment for all, where all Jews can safely express and practice Judaism,” said Samantha Joseph, ADL New England Regional Director. “Rabbis and cantors will play a key role in making the Commission’s plan a reality.”
“This expression of support reflects the widespread urgency felt by Jewish leaders across the Commonwealth to address a problem that has become viral,” said AJC New England Regional Director Rob Leikind, who served on the Commission with legislators and community leaders. “The Commission created a clear, practical roadmap. Now it’s time for all of us to work together to implement it.”
