CAPE CORAL, Fla. — As the Jewish community begins Chanukah celebrations, the recent deadly attack at a Chanukah event in Australia weighs heavily on local religious leaders and congregants across Southwest Florida.
Rabbi Yossi Labkowski of Chabad of Cape Coral knew a rabbi killed in the Australia attack, describing him as a "very, very brilliant man" who "always had good ideas" and "always shared the good ideas that he had with others."
Watch Fox 4's Allie Kaiser speak with the Jewish community about safety concerns after the attack in Australia:
During Sunday's menorah lighting at the Chabad of Cape Coral, Rabbi Labkowski noticed the somber mood among some attendees.
"They were very heartbroken last night," Labkowski said.
The rabbi observed that community members appeared on edge, becoming more vigilant and cautious during the religious gathering.
Both the Lee County Sheriff's Office and the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office have responded by increasing patrols in Jewish communities and at religious events. The enhanced security presence, while appreciated, highlights ongoing concerns about antisemitism.
"The rise of antisemitism in today's world, although it might not be as evil as other times in our history, it's our reality," said Nammie Ichilov, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.
Ichilov described the security measures as an unwelcome necessity.
"The Jewish community has essentially been burdened with an unplanned and undesired tax for safety and security," Ichilov said.
Despite the heightened security concerns, Rabbi Labkowski emphasized that the community will continue its traditions and gatherings.
"Jewish people are like olives. The more you squeeze an olive, the finer the oil comes out. The more you squeeze the Jewish people, the more the beauty of the Jewish people shines," he said.
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