I was surprised that the article “Hate Crimes on the Rise in NH” (2/10) did not include any reference to antisemitism. The writer noted that 187 hate crime complaints were received by the state’s civil rights unit in 2022. At the same time, the Anti-Defamation League reports that 147 antisemitic incidents were reported in New Hampshire in 2022.
One member of Temple Beth Jacob contacted me about antisemitic graffiti found on Hopkinton Road. Mayor Bouley called me about antisemitic graffiti found at Memorial Field. My rabbinic colleagues have shared incidents in Laconia, Portsmouth, and other communities around the state. These are just a few examples. Antisemitism is often called “the longest hate.” It seems to be one of the least commented on as well. We’ll never overcome this hate if we fail to acknowledge its existence.
Rabbi Robin Nafshi
Concord