“Milan Jewish Community Vice-President Warns of Rising Antisemitism in Italy Amid Security Concerns for Jewish Institutions and Individuals”

In recent developments, Dalia Gubbay, Vice President of the Jewish Community of Milan, has highlighted growing concerns about antisemitism in Italy. Gubbay, who stands as a symbol of strength and leadership, is also a mother deeply worried about the safety of her children in a rapidly changing environment.

During a meeting with journalist Josh Aronson and Italian-Israeli architect Yechiel Tsubari, Gubbay shared her personal and communal challenges. “I am a mother, I am Italian, and I am Jewish,” she stated, emphasizing the intersection of her identities. She raised concerns about the necessity of heavy police escorts for Jewish children attending school daily, a reality that many of her non-Jewish friends find hard to believe.

The issue extends beyond schools to places of worship. Gubbay noted that even at the synagogue, police presence is required to ensure safety, urging congregants to disperse after prayers. “We don’t want to live like this forever, but we can’t do without security,” she explained, underlining the persistent fear within the community.

This fear is not unfounded. Gubbay recounted a troubling incident involving her son at a Bnei Akiva summer camp in Bulgaria, where he faced antisemitic behavior. The incident left her questioning the safety of sending Jewish children abroad for activities. “Have we reached a point where we are afraid to send our children to Jewish youth activities abroad? That is something we cannot accept,” she lamented.

The impact of these fears extends into the home life of Jewish families. Gubbay shared the story of her 18-year-old daughter, an ardent Zionist, who is torn between her Jewish identity and personal safety as she prepares for university. “She came to me in tears and said, ‘Mom, I don’t know what to do. I’m afraid to stay here, but I can’t imagine going to university and hiding the fact that I’m Jewish. And on the other hand, if I say I’m Jewish – what will happen to me?'” Gubbay expressed her heartbreak at seeing her daughter face such a dilemma.

Despite these challenges, Gubbay remains resolute. She continues to wear the Star of David, a symbol of her faith and identity, despite concerns for her safety. “I’m not willing to take it off,” she declared, embodying a spirit of resilience and courage. Her story reflects a broader struggle for safety and acceptance, echoing the biblical call for justice and peace, as seen in Micah 6:8, which urges us to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Source: Read the original report