The world Jewish Community have experienced increase anti-Semitic incidents over the past few years. This has been especially true in the United States. The Charlottesville Jewish Community is no exception to anti-Semitic activities. With the High Holidays approaching, we at CBI need to be aware of suspicious activities that may impact our peace.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Jewish Federation’s Secure Community Network (SCN), has highly recommended that we have increased awareness to possible threats. The CBI Security Committee encourages all to remember the training on “situation awareness” and practice the lessons learned from that training (please be sure to also read the paragraph about security training below).
As a result, we encourage everyone attending High Holiday services to refrain from bringing large bags, backpacks and/or other large packages or items to services. We understand that some bags (diaper bags, tallit bags, purses with personal items, etc.) are necessary/essential, but want attendees to be aware that ALL bags are subject to search by our security team of uniformed guards. If the guards ask to inspect your bag, please remember they are only trying to protect you and all those that will be attending services.