On June 4, more than 2,000 legislators, clergy, agency leaders, and community members joined together in Boulder to grieve in community and show solidarity in the aftermath of Sunday’s terror attack against Boulder Run for Their Lives. Most impactfully, survivors and witnesses of the attack joined to share their experiences in person, reminding all in attendance that “Never Again” must begin right now.
The attack, which involved an antisemitic firebombing that injured 15 people and a dog, has led to the filing of more than 100 criminal charges against the suspect by the Boulder County District Attorney. The suspect also faces a federal hate crime count.
Governor Polis’s Rally to Stand Against Hate
The day began at 10am with an interfaith rally against hate in front of the Boulder County Historic Courthouse on the Pearl Street Mall, hosted by the Office of Governor Polis in partnership with: JEWISHcolorado, Jewish Community Relations Council, Boulder Run for Their Lives, Denver Run for Their Lives, David Merage Foundation for Confronting Antisemitism, Stop Antisemitism Colorado, Boulder Haver: The Boulder Rabbinic Council, ADL Mountain States, Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE), Boulder Jewish Community Center, Congregation Bonai Shalom, Congregation Nevei Kodesh, Congregation Har HaShem, Jewish Family Service Boulder, Israeli-American Council, StandWithUs, Adventure Judaism, Downtown Boulder Partnership, City of Boulder, Boulder Chamber, and Interfaith Alliance of Colorado.
“It is astonishing that just 3 days ago, right here, Jews were literally set on fire in a targeted antisemitic attack on a group of peaceful walkers raising awareness for the 58 hostages, dead and alive, still in tunnels in Gaza,” said Rabbi Marc Soloway of Congregation Bonai Shalom.
While the Jewish community’s fear and anger were palpable, so were its calls for an enduring commitment to returning Boulder to the city its citizens know and love.
“There’s no place for antisemitism in our community. Sunday’s attack on our Jewish community was an act of hate, but Boulder County continues to stand for love and unity,” shared Boulder County Commissioner Ashley Stolzman.
In addition to the show of support from across Colorado, national leaders also joined the rally to underscore that this moment is not felt by the Colorado Jewish community, but by Jews across the world.
“I’m angry that someone violated the space and sanctity created by some of the most dedicated and selfless members of the Boulder community,” said CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt.
A Vigil By, and For, the People of Boulder
Later that evening, the Boulder JCC hosted a community vigil, emphasizing the Jewish value of Am Ehad, b’lev Ehad – one, people, one heart.
“One people with one heart – it means we are in this together,” shared Rabbi Soloway.
Speakers shared poems, sang songs, and acknowledged the strength and vibrancy of the Boulder Jewish community.
“Boulder’s answer to hate is unity, courage, and action,” said Susan Rona, Regional Director of ADL Mountain States.
As the Boulder Jewish community moves towards healing and recovery after the vicious attacks of June 1, it was an inspiration to see so many Colorado leaders and decision-makers committing to confront the rise in hate and violence we have seen across the country head-on.
“Let me be clear – antisemitism has no home in Colorado,” said Governor Jared Polis.
How you can help:
Jewish Family Service (JFS) is currently offering multiple EMDR sessions, along with a range of mental health services, for anyone impacted by the attack. Learn more.
In addition, donations can be made to JEWISHcolorado’s Boulder Security Fund. 100% of all donations will go directly to the Boulder community to support enhanced safety and security measures, provide direct victim assistance, offer comprehensive trauma support, and respond to emerging community needs.