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Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
STL Jewish leaders react to Boulder, Co. attack
ST. LOUIS – The St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum is ramping up security, supporting educational travel and broadening its outreach efforts in response to what leaders are calling a 'chilling wave' of antisemitic violence around the world. The renewed focus follows a string of high-profile attacks against Jewish communities in cities like Paris, Washington, D.C. and most recently, Boulder, Colorado. In Boulder, a Molotov cocktail attack over the weekend left eight people injured, including an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now The incident occurred just days before the Jewish holiday of Shavuot and amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. As global tensions rise, demonstrations surrounding the conflict have grown more volatile and, in some cases, dangerous. The President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis responded to the Colorado attack with deep concern, calling it a stark reminder of the growing threat of antisemitism. He released a statement to FOX 2 on behalf of the organization, saying: 'We are again tragically reminded of what happens when hate speech goes unchecked and when people who spread antisemitic ideologies in public forums and on social media are not held accountable. 'We are heartbroken. We are outraged. And yes — we are shaken. These feelings are real, and we are not alone in carrying them.' The leadership of the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum also released a joint statement, calling the attack 'chilling.' Despite the fear and grief such attacks bring, museum officials say they remain committed to their mission. They believe that education and empathy are more important now than ever, especially as hate speech and violence continue to escalate. This year, the museum plans to expand several of its initiatives, including its 'Spiral of Hate' program, which traces how bias and stereotypes can evolve into acts of violence. Staff say the Boulder attack has only deepened their resolve to educate the public, ensure safety, and advocate for justice. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Yahoo
Prairie Village native killed in antisemitic attack in D.C.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A chilling act of violence in the nation's capital has left the global Jewish community stunned and the Kansas City metro area mourning one of its own. Two Israeli embassy employees were killed in a suspected antisemitic double homicide outside a Jewish Museum late Wednesday night. One of the victims was Sarah Milgram, a 26-year-old diplomatic staffer and Prairie Village native remembered as a beacon of light and leadership. Accused shooter charged in Washington D.C. Jewish museum shooting Her death, and that of her boyfriend Yaron Lischinsky, has sparked waves of grief and disbelief, especially for those who knew the bright, passionate young woman once deeply involved with the local Jewish community. 'When you have one of your own murdered – it literally hits close to home,' said Jay Lewis, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, who had a personal connection to the Milgram family. Described by friends and mentors as, 'a positive energy force,' Sarah Milgram lived her life with intention and heart. A University of Kansas graduate and former student representative on the board of KU Hillel, she was known for her fierce advocacy, kindness, and unwavering commitment to fighting antisemitism. 'Bright, passionate woman. Super full of life. Committed to making the world a better place,' Lewis said. Sarah's former classmate, Elianna Bernstein, shared memories of her friend's warmth and humor. 'She was so inviting, so kind, she was funny. She was just such a fun person to be around,' Bernstein said. Kansas City man attacks multiple women, released, then strikes again Unbeknownst to many, Sarah was on the cusp of a new life milestone. Her parents learned, as the world did, that Yaron had just bought a ring. The couple was preparing to get engaged. But instead of planning for the future, her family is now grieving an unthinkable loss. 'It's unimaginable,' said Lewis. 'Their world has just been irreparably damaged,' Lewis said of Milgram's parents. While federal charges for murder have now been filed against the alleged gunman, the United States Attorney General Pam Bondi called it an act of hate. The tragedy underscores a painful reality for many Jewish Americans who feel the growing weight of antisemitism and fear for their safety. Still, Lewis offered a defiant message of hope. 'It is safe to be Jewish,' he said. KU Hillel released a statement honoring Milgram as well. 'Those closest to her describe her as the definition of the best person. She exemplified the values we hold dear,' it reads. Bernstein, still reeling from the loss, urges others to stay connected to the people who matter. 'This just shows you, keep in touch with the people who are meaningful and special,' she said. 'You never know what's going to happen.' Search underway in south central Kansas for missing Overland Park woman Sarah Milgram and Yaron Lischinsky will not be remembered for how they died, but for how they lived, as two people passionately committed to peace, diplomacy and justice. 'Her job for the Israeli embassy, she was on the front lines of trying to make peace and build connections between Jews and Arabs,' said Lewis. No announcements have yet been made regarding a celebration of life or memorial service for the couple. As this story continues to unfold, what remains clear is that Sarah Milgram's legacy, one of love, courage, and connection, will not be forgotten. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
