Jewish Federation of the Berkshires Launches: Shine A Light On Antisemitism

PITTSFIELD, Mass. The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires has joined Shine A Light, a comprehensive national initiative to illuminate the dangers of antisemitism through education, engagement, and advocacy.

According to a press release, Shine A Light uses the story of Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, to champion the message that light can dispel darkness. Through a coalition of more than 100 Jewish and non-Jewish organizations, Shine a Light seeks to catalyze conversations and raise awareness across communities, on school campuses, and in the workplace, so that people will better understand what constitutes antisemitism and take steps to respond.

As part of the coalition, Jewish Federation of the Berkshires will spotlight modern forms of antisemitism and share educational resources and advocacy opportunities through a targeted social media and online campaign through the end of Chanukah on December 26.

"With the global rise in antisemitism the need to stand up to the harmful prejudices and stereotypes against the Jewish community is more critical than ever," said Federation President Elisa Schindler Frankel. "We are proud to Shine A Light on antisemitism—which still exists today, both in polite conversation and in more dangerous and insidious forms. This campaign is meant to convey in no uncertain terms that it is up to all of us to be aware of antisemitism—and to take action against it."

In conjunction with its online campaign, Jewish Federation of the Berkshires will also host a community menorah lighting and Chanukah celebration on Dec.18 at The Mount, in conjunction with NightWood immersive outdoor sound and light experience. In addition, a virtual program on contemporary Jew hatred in the United States will explore antisemitism in American universities, popular culture, and hip hop, with respected scholar Dr. Charles Asher on Jan 26.

According to the Anti-Defamation League’s annual audit of antisemitic incidents released in March of 2022, antisemitic incidents in New England spiked 42 percent in 2021, with Massachusetts ranking as the worst offender. A 2021 survey of the American Jewish Committee found that one in every four American Jews has been targeted by antisemitism over the past year, and nearly four in ten report changing their behavior for fear of being identified as Jewish, or for their safety or comfort as Jews.

Visit Federation’s website (jewishberkshires.org) for additional information about events, resources, opportunities for advocacy, and ways individuals can get involved. 

Cyclists Pedal Into Berkshire Bike Month

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
06:42AM / Saturday, May 04, 2024

Berkshire Bike Path Council President Marge Cohan addresses bikers at the event. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Clad in helmets and bright colors, more than 20 people gathered in Park Square to kick on Berkshire Bike Month on Wednesday.

The month of May will be stacked with bicycle-centered events throughout the county — beginning with an eight-mile loop from the city's center that ends at Hot Plate Brewing Co.

"We have we have a lot of things going on in Pittsfield for bicycles and for safety," Commissioner of Public Services and Utilities Ricardo Morales said.

"We're not anywhere near where we should be. We have a lot of work to do."

Bike month is meant to promote the safe use of streets for anyone and everyone no matter how they are traveling, he said The commissioner is especially excited about Bike to Work Day on May 17, as he can register to be recognized for his typical commute.

He presented a proclamation to President of the Berkshire Bike Path Council President Marge Cohan. It states that the city is committed to the health of its citizens and environment, safe cycling with road bike lanes and the extension of the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, and that the Police Department encourages safe cycling by distributing lights and helmets and accompanies the city's Ride Your Bike to School event.

BBPC is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Cohan said the quarter century has been full of commitment to bike paths and bike safety throughout Berkshire County "on roads, on trails, on tracks, and on paths."

"In expanding our mission in this way we have been able to encompass all kinds of cycles and all kinds of riders," she said.

She noted that participants range from babies to 90-year-old people. Bike month includes events for all ages.