In 586 BC, the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians. And so, the Jewish people rebuilt. In 70 CE, the Second Temple was sieged by the Romans. And so, Judaism transformed and adapted. In the 1920’s, 30’s, and 40’s, anti-Semitism rose in the form of Adolf Hitler’s mission to exterminate the Jews. And yet, the Jewish people survived. Now in 2025, Jewish people around the world encounter Jew Hatred in the form of slurs, destruction, and violence as the conflict in Israel and Gaza intensifies. And so, we persist. 

Just thirty miles away from our home in Denver, the Boulder Jewish community was shaken by an attack on June 1 during a “Run for Their Lives” walk on Pearl Street. “Run for Their Lives” began as a grassroots initiative aiming to raise awareness and advocate for the immediate release of hostages taken during the October 7 attacks. The movement has since grown into a global network with over 230 chapters worldwide, including dedicated groups in both Denver and Boulder. These weekly walks serve as a platform for the community to unite, share stories, and amplify the voices of those affected by the conflict. 

Although the Molotov cocktail attack on Pearl Street resulted in fifteen people and one dog injured, the local Jewish community continues to act with strength and unity. On June 4, 2025. a vigil was held at the Boulder Jewish Community Center with over 1200 people in attendance. The goal: to reaffirm the community’s commitment to peace. At the vigil, Governor Jared Polis said, “We know that resilience, strength and pride is who we are as Coloradans, as Boulder County residents, and as Jews.” Additionally, JEWISHcolorado has launched an emergency fund to raise $160,000 for the Boulder Jewish community to provide enhanced safety and security, victim and trauma support, and address emerging community needs. This weekend on Sunday, June 8, the Denver and Boulder chapters of “Run for Their Lives” will unite and walk together as one. For more resources, please visit the Boulder JCC  and Jewish Family Service. 

We, as a Jewish people, march forward. We remain united, with prayers of hope and peace in our hearts. We persist. The Jewish Community Center of Denver stands with our friends, family, and neighbors in Boulder. 

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