More than 100 people gathered at Temple Ner Tamid in Peabody recently for “Our Community, Our Responsibility: Understanding and Responding to Antisemitism,” a program organized by the Temple Ner Tamid Men’s Club and Lappin Foundation.

The evening brought together members of the Jewish community, neighbors of all faiths, and civic leaders for a thoughtful and urgent conversation about antisemitism, its impact and the responsibility communities share in responding to it. Lappin’s Debbie Coltin led the program focusing on education, awareness and action. “In order to counter antisemitism, we have to name it, and we have to define it,” she said. She also emphasized that “learning alone will not move the needle or change the direction it’s going in.”

Throughout the evening, attendees heard personal stories of antisemitism and discussed the importance of educating students, neighbors and community leaders. Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker offered a powerful perspective on hate crimes and incidents, reporting, law enforcement training, and community response. His message was clear: “When it comes to antisemitic incidents and hate crimes, this is a no-bystander zone. Everybody has a role.”

The program ended with a call to speak up, educate and take meaningful action.