The Blue Light Project 2024 Shining a Light Against Jewish Hatred

The Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester (ROCAA) and Roc Against Antisemitism (RAA) is calling on the community to take action and stand against antisemitism.

The organizations, today, announced The Blue Light Project for 2024, a collaboration between the two groups, asking the community to support the Jewish community by shining a visible blue light at their home or  place of business beginning December 1st.

Organizers note the increase in Jew hatred around the world and right here in Rochester as a motivation for this year's campaign.

“Blue was the obvious choice because of its importance to and historical association with Jews. In the Torah, G-d instructed Jews to include a blue cord in the tzizit, or tassels, of their clothing. Moreover, Tallit, or Jewish prayer shawls, often have blue stripes after which the modern blue and white flag of the State of Israel was modeled,” explained ROCAA co-founder Leora Rozin.

The purposes of the blue light includes reminding people that antisemitism continues to be at its highest levels since the Holocaust, sparking conversations among friends and neighbors, fostering understanding and compassion for Jewish community members, promoting education and awareness of antisemitism, and helping achieve the goal of everyone in our community being able to live a peaceful and secure life.

“Last year so many partners, friends and neighbors participated in The Blue Light Project and stood together as a community literally to shine a light against the world’s oldest hate. This year our lights will shine even brighter,” said Meredith Dragon, the CEO of the Jewish Federation.

Anyone is invited to participate in The 2024 Blue Light Project. Free light bulbs and lights can be picked up beginning December 1, 2024 at the front desk of the Louis S. Wolk Jewish Community Center, 1200 Edgewood Avenue anytime during regular JCC business hours or at Hadlock ACE Hardware, 3400 Monroe Avenue anytime during regular business hours. Supplies of free blue light bulbs are limited so we encourage community members to act fast. Lights are also available for self purchasing on Amazon.

“We are incredibly thankful for the outpouring of support for the Jewish community that local businesses and government offices have shown once again this year and we invite everyone to participate. Email us a picture of your business or building shining a blue light against hate and we will add you to our list of allies on our website,” stated Leslie Connolly of ROCAA.