Security guards at synagogues often stand in the cold, sacrifice holidays with family, and carry a heavy responsibility they never chose. When tragedy strikes, these guards are frequently the first line of defense, yet their role in fostering community connection is often overlooked.
According to a 2025 report by the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents in the United States reached a record high of over 10,000 in 2024, a 200% increase from 2023. This surge has led many synagogues to hire armed security, but guards report that their work goes beyond physical protection.
βIβm not just a guard; Iβm a greeter, a friend, a familiar face,β said one guard in a 2025 interview with the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. βWhen people feel scared, they need connection, not just barriers.β Studies show that community engagement reduces fear and builds resilience against hate.
Programs like the Secure Community Network train guards in both security and community outreach, emphasizing that human connection is a key tool against antisemitism. As of June 2026, over 1,000 synagogues in the U.S. participate in such programs.
