To the Editor:

The normalization of antisemitic language in our public discourse is not harmless. Words matter. They can create an atmosphere in which hatred becomes easier to express — and, eventually, easier to act upon.

I was reminded of this harsh reality recently by two deeply disturbing incidents that occurred during and after the Dog Day Race in Harvey Cedars. The target of both incidents was a 13-year-old Jewish boy, the grandson of one of my congregants.

August 26, 2026