Jewish community draws strength from Triangle Hanukkah events after Australia massacre

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- According to Raleigh Police, there are no known threats to the community as Hanukkah celebrations are underway, but that doesn't change the raw emotion felt behind the recent tragedy in Australia.

David Zisson's heavy heart led him to the Shul, a synagogue in downtown Raleigh, on his lunch break. In light of the mass shooting in Sydney, Australia, that claimed the lives of 15 people and injured more than 40 others, he was in need of prayer.

"Things are dark right now in the Jewish community," said Zisson. "It's terrible. I've been grappling with it since it happened. Kind of in the background of my mind."

This is something Rabbi Zalmy Dubinsky said has been on the minds of many in the Jewish community as he showed ABC11 around the synagogue.

"We wanted to incorporate the spirit and spirituality and create the right flavor of comfort and social interaction," he said.

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His space even offers a bar. He said he launched the synagogue in January out of a need because, as Raleigh grows, so does the Jewish community. Dubinsky and the Chabad Young Professionals Raleigh partnered with the Downtown Raleigh Alliance and the city to organize a public menorah lighting event on the third day of Hanukkah in Moore Square.

"Jewish tradition is rooted deeply in the idea resilience, no matter what the odds are. No matter how fearful or dark things might be, we double down on Jewish pride and Jewish celebration and connection," Dubinsky said.

Across the Triangle, a number of Hanukkah celebrations are taking place this week, and heightened security measures are in place.

Raleigh Police released the following statement:

The Raleigh Police Department does not release details regarding public security plans, operational plans, tactical strategies, off-duty contracts or emergency action plans, as that information is not public record per NCGS 132-1.7.

In the best interest of public safety, the Raleigh Police Department does not release information about security arrangements/tactical strategies (for events). However, Department personnel who are responsible for the security and logistical planning consider and evaluate many factors, including events that have occurred elsewhere, as they make safety and staffing decisions.

As is always the case, spectators and participants at the City of Raleigh's upcoming events are asked to notify any of our uniformed officers stationed at any activity or those positioned along and near a route if they see anyone or anything that appears suspicious.

In Moore Square on Tuesday afternoon, dozens attended the menorah lighting event. Organizers called them symbols of strength and togetherness.

"We wanted to express support for our friends who are Jewish and otherwise celebrating this holiday. We wanted to be here," said Noelle Brown.