Senator Rausch: Statement and Resources about Israel

View this email in your browser Dear Friend, Over the last several days, since Hamas launched its massacre, I have issued several statements about the unspeakable horrors unfolding in Israel. I write to reiterate my stance and offer several resources to you. Given the risks both abroad and domestically, please review and employ these resources: For Americans who are currently in Israel — please register with STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This free service ensures that the U.S. Embassy in Israel has your contact and travel details so: (1) you can receive important safety and security information; (2) the Embassy can contact you in case of emergency; and (3) family and friends will be better able to get in touch with you in an emergency. For Americans who are currently in Israel and want to leave — the U.S. government is aware that domestic airlines have limited or stopped flights in and out of Israel. They are working on finding alternatives, such as connecting flights through intermediate locations and ground/water travel. Please contact the Embassy in Jerusalem, located at 14 David Flusser St. (in Arnona), phone 02-630-4000.  For people in the U.S. who are involved with synagogues, community centers, or other organizations at heightened risk for targeted violence and terrorism, especially individuals in leadership roles — please consult the federal government's community safety and prevention kit.  For Massachusetts residents who are in leadership roles at synagogues, community centers, and other organizations at heightened risk for targeted violence and terrorism — our FY24 state budget allocates $4,000,000 for nonprofit security grants. Keep an eye out for the next application period.  For all people in the U.S. — if you see antisemitic or other content online that includes a call to or threat of violence, report it to your local law enforcement; you can also report to the FBI directly.  For Massachusetts residents who personally experience or witness antisemitic discrimination or harassment, or any discriminatory behavior based on identity — file a civil rights complaint with the Attorney General's Office.  For everyone — the ADL has numerous resources (including this toolkit) to address and challenge antisemitism.  This is a difficult time for many of us. For support, please utilize 988 and the Hey Sam peer-to-peer youth mental health text line. Take care of yourselves, and each other. Yours in service,   Senator Becca Rausch    Our mailing address is: The Office of Senator Becca Rausch Massachusetts State House, Room 215                            24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02133