Dear Editor,
I want to thank everyone who has reached out after my storefront in Cavendish was vandalized with anti-Zionist graffiti.
The messages, calls and offers of support have meant more than I can say. People from Vermont and beyond have written to tell me that seeing Israeli flags in my window gave them comfort, courage and a feeling that they were not alone. I did not fully realize how much that visibility mattered until others told me.
I was shaken by what happened, but I am OK, and I will not be broken by it. This was an act of intimidation directed at me because I am Jewish and feel a love for Israel that is shared by many Jewish people worldwide.
Most importantly, the person responsible came to my shop and apologized to me directly. Accepting responsibility for one’s conduct can be difficult, and I considered his apology sincere. It was meaningful and healing to me. I accepted his apology and told the police that I personally do not seek criminal punishment. I understand that the final charging decision belongs to law enforcement and prosecutors.
What happened was serious, painful and wrong. But I also believe it can be a learning moment for all of us, no matter our opinions.
I remain deeply concerned about the climate that made this possible. I believe the Apartheid Free Pledge campaign in Vermont, run by the Vermont Coalition for Palestinian Liberation, and the rhetoric surrounding it have helped normalize the idea that Jews whose identity and family history are deeply connected to Israel should be treated as morally suspect in our own communities. That kind of anti-Zionist demonization does not stay abstract. It can motivate good people to act in bad ways, and those hateful acts affect real people, real businesses and real Jewish families here in Vermont.
Incidents like this are happening more than many people realize, and most go unreported. I made Vermont my home because I love it here, and I still do. But it does not feel the same as it once did. I fear for the future of the Jewish community here if anti-Jewish intimidation is not confronted clearly. Jewish friends of mine have already moved away.
To everyone who called, wrote, offered help, offered prayers or simply stood with me: thank you. Your kindness has strengthened me. I am grateful for the people who have shown up. And I will keep standing.
Denise Gebroe
Proctorsville, Vt.
