Safety & Security: A Year-Round Priority

In recent weeks, Jews around the world have been grappling with the devastating news of a brutal antisemitic attack on Jews celebrating Chanukah in a public space in Sydney, Australia. We mourn the fifteen lives lost, pray for a complete and speedy refuah shleima (a Hebrew phrase meaning “complete healing” or “a whole and complete recovery), for those injured, and hold the Australian Jewish community close in our hearts. 

You can see our social media statement here. 

While this tragedy occurred far from Atlanta, its impact was deeply felt here. Antisemitism is not distant or abstract—it is real, it is violent, and it demands clarity, vigilance, and action. That is why safety and security is one of Federation’s five core impact areas and a priority we invest in all year long.  

Against this backdrop, Federation leadership was recently featured in local media, reinforcing both our community’s resilience and the proactive steps in place to protect Jewish life in Atlanta: 

Hanukkah Celebrated With Hope and Reflection (11Alive)
Federation President & CEO Renee Kutner reflected on how Jewish Atlantans came together to mark Chanukah with strength, unity, and pride—affirming that even in difficult moments, Jewish life continues openly and visibly. 

Security Tightened for Hanukkah Celebrations Across Metro Atlanta (Atlanta News First)
Following the attack in Sydney, Renee addressed enhanced security measures across the Atlanta Jewish community, emphasizing close coordination with law enforcement and the importance of vigilance—while making clear that community events continued as planned. 

In addition, Chief Impact Officer Rich Walter was featured multiple times on WSB Radio, reinforcing Federation’s message that heightened security and strong Jewish life go hand in hand. He underscored the ongoing steps being taken to protect our community and the importance of staying informed and engaged. 

Brian Davis, Director of Community Security, also shared an important safety and security message outlining best practices and steps being taken for individuals, families, and institutions—guidance that remains relevant well beyond the holiday season. 

Here in Atlanta, our Federation-led community security efforts remain on heightened alert, in close partnership with law enforcement and security professionals. This work did not begin with Chanukah—and it does not end with it. 

Explore more Federation media coverage
Visit our new “Federation in the News” page to see recent features and stay informed: 

Even after the candles are extinguished, the message of Chanukah endures: light, resilience, and communal strength. We will not hide. We will not be afraid. We will continue to strengthen Jewish life—here in Atlanta and around the world.