Some Jews living in Los Angeles, California, are struggling to decide how they want to celebrate Hanukkah this year, expressing concern that the decorations in their homes may invite backlash from antisemites during the Israel-Hamas war.
Adam Kulbersh, who lives in Studio City, told the LA Times he doesn’t know how to explain to his six-year-old son Jack the plight of Jews in the wake of the ongoing conflict, admitting the menorah can bring unwanted attention.
“Nowadays, there are bad people who want to do bad things,” Kulbersh told his son. “My number one job is to keep you safe, and we’re not going to hang decorations.”
A store in the Hollywood Hills ended a 30-year tradition when its owner chose not to display a large menorah, citing concerns about disruption or vandalism.
“There are crazy people out there in the world. They can come and burn everything,” said the owner.
The man was one of several individuals who asked the LA Times not to reveal their full names out of concern that they might be targeted because of their Jewish faith.
Atwater Village resident Nicole compared the Oct. 7 terror attack by Hamas to the lingering bruises on the community in Los Angeles, which has one of the largest Jewish populations in the country.
“I feel a little homesick for vacation, but I don’t necessarily feel unsafe here,” he said. “I will not run away from talking about my faith. That’s why I can shop at a halal deli without feeling guilty.”
UC-Berkeley professor of Jewish studies and history Ethan Katz told the Times that the vulnerability Israel and Jews have faced since October 7 is similar to the fear Americans experienced after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Some Jews in Los Angeles are struggling to decide how they want to celebrate Hanukkah this year. Getty Images/iStockphoto
A few days before the interview, Katz walked down the street wearing a hat worn by some observant men known as a Kippah. Someone in a nearby car yelled at him, “Free Palestine.”
“I started by saying, ‘You know nothing about my position in Israel. You are making a lot of assumptions. And you assume that because I’m Jewish, I must have a certain view about Israel and I’m fair game for you to express your opinion about Israel,’” Katz said.
Men stand in front of a synagogue in Los Angeles with an Israeli flag. AFP via Getty Images
Despite the anxiety, many Jews in the area still say they will express their faith and participate in the upcoming festivities.
“If Jews can’t openly be Jewish in Los Angeles, then we shouldn’t live in Los Angeles anymore,” said conservative Rabbi Nolan Lebovitz.
Jewish spiritual community Nefesh board member Daniela Gerson echoed similar sentiments, noting that people often find solace in Jewish fellowship.
“Normally, the menorah lighting in my house is closed. I don’t plan to change anything about this Hanukkah,” he said.
Despite the anxiety, many Jews in the area still say they will express their faith and participate in the upcoming festivities. Getty Images
After telling a non-Jewish friend that he would not be hanging decorations this year, Kulbersh said his non-Jewish friend offered to put a menorah in his own window as a sign of solidarity.
“Now I can turn to my son and say, ‘This year we’re not just hanging our decorations, we’re going big and he’s excited,'” Kulbersh said.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
