Western Massachusetts leaders report rise in antisemitic incidents in schools and public spaces, ask for teacher training and security support

Summary

Religious and community leaders from the Berkshires and the Upper Valley told the commission of online targeting, protests outside a Jewish-owned coffee shop, a school lockdown after a student manifesto with antisemitic threats, and repeated vandalism; witnesses urged statewide resources for educators and security funding.

Religious leaders, community federation officials and educators from Western Massachusetts told the Special Commission that local Jewish communities are experiencing a rise in antisemitic incidents in schools, businesses and public life and urged more statewide resources for education and security.

Rabbi Jody Gordon of the Hebra of Southern Berkshire described three local episodes: the online circulation of a photograph of a Jewish minor used to promote demonstrations, a June 2024 protest outside Fuel coffee shop in Great Barrington that carried posters naming Jewish owners and accusing them of funding genocide, and a February 2025 school lockdown after a 16‑page manifesto with antisemitic and anti‑LGBTQ content was circulated in a regional district. “In small communities...incidents when they happen are automatic illustrate a little bit about what it looks like,” Gordon said.

Rabbi Amy Walt of…

Western Massachusetts leaders report rise in antisemitic incidents in schools and public spaces, ask for teacher training and security support

Summary

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