John,

We are weeks into the new year, and the targeted attacks on the Jewish community keep escalating.

Last Saturday, news spread of a horrifying hostage crisis at Colleyville Congregation Beth Israel. The news was terrifying, as we watched and waited, hoping the event would end safely. This was the third time in three years that we witnessed violent acts of hate against those worshipping inside a synagogue. And it hit even closer to home to hear that our longtime TFN friend and ally, Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker, was one of the four hostages.

Thankfully, all of the hostages made it out safe, but the traumatic event left its mark. At TFN, we grieved the actions of one individual filled with hate and we reached out to our loved ones for support. But it’s what we didn’t do that we regret.

We owe our families and friends an apology for our public silence.

Regardless of the act of hatred, level of trauma, or threat of violence, it’s imperative that we speak out and show support to our Jewish community. For us to be true allies we must hold ourselves accountable in times of stress as those are the times of greatest need. We are truly sorry for our silence, and we’re here to break it.

Just yesterday, NPR released an interview with Rabbi Cytron-Walker where he reminds us that “we can’t live in fear.” Even after his experience, he’s already reminding us of the teachings of compassion and strength. Antisemitism has no place in our state and we'll continue to work with our partners to combat it. In order to end a toxic culture of antisemitism, it’s up to all of us to reject hatred and spread kindness.

At TFN, we will move forward and commit to learn more and do better each day. We invite you to join us, to speak out, to hold each other accountable, and to be a force for change.

Together,

Val Benavidez
TFN President