We are deeply saddened by the tragic attack on our Jewish community in Sydney, Australia.  Our hearts are with those who were injured, the families of those impacted, and the broader Jewish community as we mourn and heal. 

 As we prepare for our own Chanukah celebrations across the community, we want to reaffirm our shared commitment to safety while also encouraging moments of light, connection and resilience during this season. 

Our security professionals continue to work closely with the Federation staff and law enforcement to ensure the safety of our community. At this time, we continue to recommend that your Chanukah celebrations proceed, with appropriate security measures in place. 

If you are planning an event, particularly one that is outdoors, it is critically important that you coordinate with your local law enforcement in advance.  If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact Security@Jewishphilly.org. We wish everyone a safe holiday season.

To ensure the safety of our community gatherings, we have urged the implementation of the following measures:

• Coordinate closely with law enforcement and Jewish Community security professionals.
• Extend perimeter protections as far as possible.
• Limit events to identifiable individuals and pre-screened invitation lists.
• Require registration and verify registrants for public events.
• Share specific event details only upon confirmed registration.
• Implement strict access control and entrance procedures.
• Remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity without delay.
• Add armed law enforcement or security personnel wherever possible.

Please see the newly released Community Guide for Event Security for further guidance.

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About the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
Since 1901, the Jewish Federation has served as the hub of the region’s Jewish communities, providing an infrastructure of support for Jewish people and organizations in need. Through grants, emergency funding, restricted gifts, endowments, and our partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Schools, we annually invest in caring for those in need, combating antisemitism and global crisis, and securing a vibrant Jewish future. For more information, please visit: jewishphilly.org.

About the Secure Community Network 
The Secure Community Network (SCN), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America. Founded in 2004 under the auspices of Jewish Federations of North America and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, SCN serves as the central organization dedicated exclusively to the safety and security of the American Jewish community. SCN is an official partner of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. Learn more at securecommunitynetwork.org.