Residents of Shenorock, N.Y. outraged by the second vandalism this week against the Hebrew Congregation in that town, have organized a brotherhood meeting for July 29 at which plans will be considered to create a Somers human relations committee for the area. The synagogue was smeared with swastikas, obscene epithets, and the words “Hitler Forever” and “Nazi Youth of America. ” Six months ago, vandals broke several windows in the synagogue.
The Daily News of Mamaroneck said that the July 29 meeting “typifies the true neighborhood warmth and understanding that prevail more generally in Westchester county than cynics or extremists realize.” The newspaper added that it was “regrettable that it sometimes takes a mean, overt act of intolerance to bring such sensibilities to the surface and to stimulate active pursuit of peace and fellowship” but that, nevertheless, “the immediate response of the community” was a clear rebuff to the “destructive purpose” of the vandals.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
