The Colorado Springs Jewish community ‘staying vigilant’ as antisemitism surges nationwide

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- A rise of antisemitism in the United States has been reported after the rapper “Ye,” formerly known as Kanye West, posted antisemitic comments on Twitter, prompting prominent brands like Adidas to end their partnership with him.

Locally, the antisemitism is startling the Colorado Springs Jewish community and prompting them to review and renew safety measures at their synagogues.

“It's a much bigger problem than just this one popular person saying terrible things,” said Rabbi Jay Sherwood with Temple Shalom. “It perpetuates the stereotypes. It perpetuates the lies, and it makes it more difficult for Jews to feel safe in the world.”

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, there were 23 antisemitic hate crimes reported in Colorado in 2020. Additionally, the Anti-Defamation League records a 34% increase in antisemitic incidents from 2020.

“When you see these events repeating themselves, we do have congregants who are scared,” said Sherwood.

Local synagogues say they are working closely with the Secure Community Network (SCN), the safety organization for the Jewish community in North America, to ensure they are prepared for any possible threats.