Milan Jewish Leader Details Rising Antisemitism and Fear

Dalia Guabai, vice president of Milan's Jewish community, described a reality of heavy security, public antisemitism, and parental fear for children's futures, while vowing not to abandon Jewish identity. She expressed distress over children needing police escorts to school and the inability to socialize freely outside synagogues after services, likening the situation to the 1930s.

Guabai shared a personal experience where her son was involved in an antisemitic incident at a summer camp in Bulgaria, causing her deep emotional distress and concern about sending Jewish youth to international programs. Her 18-year-old daughter faces a dilemma between concealing her Jewish identity for safety or openly expressing it and risking harm, a choice Guabai finds heartbreaking.

Despite her fears and her mother's pleas, Guabai refuses to hide her Jewish symbols, though she advises her children to be cautious in public. The community is increasing security measures in coordination with local police ahead of the High Holidays, but Guabai emphasized that Milan's Jews will not be intimidated into isolation. She stressed that the community is engaged in a daily struggle for their identity, their right to support Israel, and their children's future, maintaining strong ties to Israel despite the personal costs and fears.