Jewish community leaders in Texas are urging the federal government to increase security funding for religious institutions following a recent attack at a synagogue in Michigan.
Miriam Zivin, board president of Mothers Against College Antisemitism, said the reports and images from the Michigan incident were disturbing but not unexpected.
She said the rise in antisemitic threats and attacks should have prompted stronger safety measures earlier.
Michigan synagogue attack
Authorities say a man drove into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan before exiting the vehicle carrying a rifle. Security personnel confronted the suspect and fatally shot him.
Officials later identified the man as a Lebanese-born U.S. citizen.
The incident has intensified concerns among Jewish communities across the country about safety at synagogues and schools.
Growing security concerns
Zivin said security has already become a major priority for many Jewish institutions, especially after the October 7 attacks on Israel.
Many synagogues and Jewish schools now rely on private security services or trained volunteers. Some organizations, including Shomer Texas, provide volunteer security teams that receive specialized training to protect community events and religious facilities.
Local antisemitic incidents reported
Zivin said she has personally experienced antisemitic harassment during an online event hosted by a synagogue in Plano, Texas. During the event, a Zoom presentation was reportedly hacked, and antisemitic images and messages were displayed on the screen.
Other incidents have also been reported at nearby schools and universities, including graffiti and antisemitic messages at Plano West Senior High School, the University of Texas at Dallas, and the University of North Texas.
Calls for federal assistance
Community leaders are now urging lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to strengthen programs that help religious organizations pay for security measures.
Zivin said Congress should expand funding opportunities that support protective measures at Jewish institutions. She pointed to grants administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which provide financial assistance to nonprofit groups seeking to improve security.
Advocates say expanding such programs could help synagogues and schools invest in surveillance systems, security personnel and other protective resources.