Faith should be a place of peace. Sadly, today it also requires protection.
Families who gather to pray, celebrate holidays, or drop off their kids at preschool should never have to think about violence.
Yet after a shocking attack on a synagogue in Michigan this week, Jewish communities across the country, including here in Southern Nevada, are being reminded that vigilance still matters.
Authorities say an armed man drove a vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan, on Thursday.
According to reports from Axios and the Associated Press, the suspect rammed the building and fired shots before being found dead inside the vehicle.
Investigators also discovered explosives in the vehicle. The FBI is now leading the investigation and described the incident as a targeted act against the Jewish community.
A security officer was struck during the attack and taken to a hospital. Thankfully, officials say he is expected to recover.
What makes this even more disturbing is that the temple houses an early childhood education center. At the time of the attack, more than 140 children were inside the building.
Because of safety drills and quick action by staff, the children and congregants were evacuated quickly. Authorities reported that no students or teachers were injured.
It was a close call. And for many families watching the news, it was a frightening reminder that these threats are real.
Here in Las Vegas, local law enforcement did not wait around.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department increased patrols at synagogues and Jewish schools throughout the valley soon after news of the attack spread.
Rabbi Levi Harlig told KTNV that officers arrived at his synagogue quickly after the incident made headlines.
“What those bad people are trying to accomplish is to scare us, to make us hide our identity as Jewish people,” Harlig said. “But the community coming together and the police being visible helps people feel safer.”
That kind of partnership between law enforcement and local communities is exactly what keeps people safe.
Nevada leaders have already taken steps in that direction.
In December, Governor Joe Lombardo announced that law enforcement agencies should maintain a visible presence around synagogues and Jewish institutions.
He also launched a statewide Antisemitism Working Group to improve coordination between state agencies, law enforcement, and community leaders.
Those preparations appear to be paying off.
Because of that coordination, Jewish organizations and Nevada law enforcement were already in closer communication about security planning before this latest incident.
Still, events like the Detroit attack highlight a difficult reality.
America has seen an increase in antisemitic incidents in recent years.
According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents in the United States reached record levels in 2023 and 2024. Many of these incidents target houses of worship, schools, and community centers.
Critics sometimes argue that increased police presence around religious institutions sends the wrong message or creates unnecessary fear. But common sense says the opposite.
When families gather for worship, safety should never be an afterthought. A visible law enforcement presence can deter threats and reassure communities that they are not alone.
The good news is that the response in Las Vegas shows what responsible leadership and community cooperation look like.
Police increased patrols quickly. Synagogues activated safety plans. Families stayed alert while continuing their services and community programs. That balance matters.
Freedom of religion is one of the bedrock rights in this country. No American should feel afraid to practice their faith.
Protecting that freedom is not political. It is simply part of keeping our communities safe.
And here in Nevada, it is clear that law enforcement and local leaders understand the stakes.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views. Digital technology was used in the research, writing, and production of this article. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
