The message below was sent to the CAA community on March 10.
Tonight during the Oscars, the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (FCAS) will premiere a new ad, entitled “Neighbors.” As you may have already heard, this ad is based on events that happened at Agudas Achim in October, when an emailed threat arrived just before a Bat Mitzvah. While police and a bomb squad searched our building, Pastor Tim Johnson and the Evangelical Christian Church across the street welcomed us in, and we began the service in their social hall.
This act of generosity across faiths moved those of us who were there, and also caught the attention of FCAS, an organization founded by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. They approached CAA leadership late last year, interested in making the incident the focus of a new ad highlighting the role of people from other faiths who stand up against acts of anti-Semitism and hatred.
We were honored by their request, and agreed it was a great story to tell. In order to focus on the story itself, we opted not to have Agudas Achim identified by name. FCAS generously agreed, and we think they have done wonderfully at crafting a story that is based in reality and highlights the importance of partnerships across faith communities.
As the premiere approached, several media reports have connected the ad to Agudas Achim, so we wanted to make sure you were also aware of the link between this ad and our community.
Click below to watch the ad, and please be in touch if you have questions.
Molly Jacobs, President
