Buffalo synagogues step up security ahead of holidays

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Jewish leaders are stepping up security measures at synagogues across Buffalo ahead of Rosh Hashanah.

Known as the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah is a time of repentance and renewal for those of the Jewish faith. Ahead of the holiday next week, officials with the Buffalo Jewish Federation told WIVB News 4 that steps are actively being taken to increase safety.

“People are looking behind their back, they’re worried about their friends and family, they’re worried about themselves,” said Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein with Congregation Shir Shalom. “This is something the Jewish community hadn’t faced until about 5-6 years ago. Now, everything is different.”

There’s been a nearly 900% increase in antisemitic incidents across the country over the course of the past decade, according to the Anti-Defamation League, which is why safety and security remain top of mind for officials at area temples.

“There are a lot of security measures in place that are visible for congregants and Jewish folks who walk into a synagogue for the High Holidays,” said Miriam Abramovich, CEO of the Buffalo Jewish Federation. “There’s also a lot that happens behind the scenes, and in many ways that is the most critical work that keeps the Jewish community safe.”

Over the course of the next week, a number of additional security measures will be implemented to help ensure safety for all who come out to worship.

“There’s increased dialogue, increased, directed patrols at the facilities,” said Craig Macy, director of community security with the Buffalo Jewish Federation. “Depending on the event and the event size, there might be more officers than normal working the events.”

While security concerns are heightened around the holidays, it’s not just this time of year where extra steps are taken.

“Every single time people walk into our building, we have to be worried because of the antisemitism, which is all around, constantly, in our face,” Rabbi Lazarus-Klein said. “We have to make sure that our community, that anyone really who accesses this building, feels safe here.”

As the Jewish community heads to synagogues across the area next week to celebrate the holiday, officials want to remind everyone that if they see something, say something, and don’t hesitate to call police.