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Beexley proclaims Jewish American Heritage Month, local leaders note rise in anti‑Semitic incidents
Summary
Mayor Kesler and the City Council read a proclamation recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month; Jewish Columbus leaders accepted the proclamation and highlighted local programs such as synagogue resource officers and a rise in anti‑Semitic incidents locally and nationally.
Beexley Mayor Kesler and the City Council issued a proclamation May 26 recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month and affirming the city’s support for local Jewish institutions.
Jonathan Fibel, board chair of Jewish Columbus and a Beexley resident, accepted the proclamation on behalf of Jewish Columbus and thanked the mayor and council. "My name is Jonathan Fibel and I'm a proud Beexley resident and the board chair of Jewish Columbus," he said as he introduced organizational leaders in the chamber.
Fibel and others noted that the recognition comes amid increased anti‑Semitic incidents. He told the council that reports of such incidents have risen sharply in central Ohio and nationally since Oct. 7, 2023, and said the proclamation signaled that "your community is our community" and that the city is "fiercely protective" of its Jewish residents. He also highlighted local supports including synagogue resource officers and social services provided by Jewish organizations.
Mayor Kesler said the proclamation was intended to honor Jewish Americans’ contributions to cultural, civic, scientific and educational life and to reaffirm the city’s commitment to pluralism and inclusion. The proclamation text cited Jewish Columbus, the Columbus Jewish Community Center, and Jewish Family Services for community programming and support services.
The ceremonial portion concluded with council and guests posing for photographs; council business then resumed with presentations on municipal topics including sewer planning and property‑value updates.
The city said the proclamation is part of regular civic observances and that related community events and resources will be posted on the city’s website.
