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"It's a dark period", local Rabbis react to a stabbing at a Hanukkah celebration

Posted at 6:18 PM, Dec 29, 2019
and last updated 2019-12-29 18:23:08-05

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. (WKBW) — During a time of celebration, an act of violence has shaken the Jewish community. Five people were stabbed during a Hanukkah celebration north of New York City Saturday night.

"Unfortunate teachings of hate...people just act in terrible ways," said Rabbi Laizer Labkovski, Program Director at the Jewish Discovery Center in Williamsville.

This is the 13th anti-semitic attack in New York State this month, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo.

"Just hate and violence, that's all it was. I wish I could say this was an isolated situation...It's not just about New York State, this is a national phenomenon," said Governor Cuomo.

"It's a dark period. Unfortunately, these things are happening pretty [frequently]," said Moshe Gurary, Rabbi at the Chabad House.

After last year's shooting in Pittsburgh, Rabbi Labkovski started adding security guards during large events. After recent attacks, he's taking more steps to keep everyone safe.

"We'll have to get together, speak to the local police departments and see what they can do to add protection," said Rabbi Labkovski.

New York State Police will be increasing patrols at places of worship and Jewish neighborhoods across the state, at the Governor's direction.

In the meantime, Rabbi Labkovski says this will not deter him from having any events or activities at the Jewish Discovery Center.