Arizona Jewish community boosts security, vows for unity following deadly attack in Australia

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - The targeted attack on a Jewish community in Australia during the first night of Hanukkah is causing a reaction locally.

Local perspective:

In the wake of this horrific attack, the Arizona Jewish community is uniting with a message of hope and resilience, through prayer, dance, and solidarity.

Over in Scottsdale, the candlelight lighting marks the first night of Hanukkah, but it also sends a strong message that the Jewish community will stand together — even in the face of tragedy.

"This is the holiday of light, the holiday of positivity," said Rabbi Mendel Vaisfiche of Scottsdale Chabad. "There could be no better time than to be proud Jews and we’re standing together as a community."

Big picture view:

This year, Hanukkah is a call for unity more than ever, as the global Jewish community mourns the lives lost from the mass shooting at a Hanukkah event in Australia — a tragedy that has led to an increased law enforcement presence at events across Arizona.

"Yes we need to be vigilant and careful and safe but not forget about who we are, be proud of who we are," Rabbi Mendel said.

"We are completely averse to any of the increased antisemitism that we're seeing around the world and know that we stand with you here in Scottsdale," said Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky.

Why you should care:

But through a holiday that represents hope and resilience, the Arizona Jewish community stands proudly together.

"It's time for families to remember what's important: being together — not only with our family but with our community," said Dana Feffer, who attended the Scottsdale Hanukkah celebration.

Anna Kessler, also at the celebration, added, "It's so important that we continue the fight. It's a big fight but we continue, unfortunately and sadly. But it's important that we all come together more than ever."

"Be out in the public showing off the miracle of Hanukkah and being with our fellow Jews — that's so critical," said Jay Keehn.

Dig deeper:

Proving that in times of darkness, the Jewish community finds light.

"Now more than ever it is so important combat this darkness and hate with so much light," said Itty Barber. "And this is what we're doing here! Look how beautiful this is! So many Jewish people celebrating Hanukkah!"

A message of resilience shared by Jewish leaders across the state.

"The way that the anti-Semites and the terrorists win, or any person of hate, is by striking fear into us where we go into hiding. We will not go into hiding," said Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz, Arizona Jews for Justice founder. "We will celebrate our Jewishness and what it means to be a proud American — a part of a diverse society — out in public wherever we go. We will always have security and make sure every protocol is followed, but we will never hide."

What they're saying:

Phoenix Police, the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, and other agencies released statements, saying they are increasing patrols near Jewish organizations throughout the holidays.

Dig deeper:

Chabad of Arizona confirmed they are not canceling a single event. In fact, the organization is encouraging the Arizona Jewish community to come together, saying, "This is how we answer hate — with faith, unity, and more light than ever before."

Along with additional security, Phoenix Police confirmed they will be increasing patrols around synagogues and other events across the city. The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office is closely monitoring the situation as well.