Since October 7th, there has been an increase in antisemitism everywhere. It has only been a couple weeks since the protests on Pico Boulevard, which erupted into violence and resulted in people being hurt by anti-Israel protestors. It is more important now than ever for our community-members to learn how to protect ourselves.
Here are some opportunities to get involved in community security/learning how to protect yourself.
CSS: Community Security Service and ROAM through CSS
CSS is a Jewish community based security organization with a branch specifically in Los Angeles. According to their website, they offer “free security training, guidance, and resources to community members and institutions who want to help protect their own against antisemitic incidents and security threats”. In addition to this, they have trained over 10,000 community members and volunteers, protect about 400 Jewish institutions monthly, and provide security for over 100 events per year.
Visit https://thecss.org to learn how to get more involved.
ROAM is the free Young Professionals division of the CSS in Los Angeles. Among other services and opportunities, they offer opportunities for community members to provide security for Jewish events and offer classes on security theory and krav maga. This YP division launches in late August 2024.
Visit https://thecss.org or scan the QR code on the flyer below for more info.
Bear Jew Boxing Club
Bear Jew Boxing Club is offering free self defense training classes for Jews of all observance levels. All classes are led by pro boxer Sammy Horowitz. The offer both co-ed and women only classes Must email bearjewboxingclub@gmail.com to reserve a spot as there is a high demand.
Jewish Krav Maga Classes
Nessah Synagogue is offering Jewish Krav Maga classes starting Mondays on July 22nd. Womens’ only classes will be at 7 pm and mens only classes will be at 8 pm. See flyer below for more info.
If you see this post too late visit therighttoexist.org, the organizers’ website in order to put together a krav maga class for your shul/school/friend community!
Krav Maga Worldwide
Here is another krav maga option nearby. Click the link below to see their schedule of classes.
https://kravmagalosangeles.com/locations/west-la/
Jewish Community Organizations
It is also vital now to be aware of the safety organizations available to us in our neighborhood; we are grateful to have both Magen Am and Shmira available to help protect our community and keep us safe.
Magen Am
Magen Am is the only Jewish organization that is non profit and licensed to provide physical armed security services in the U.S. They also offer classes and trainings to help community members feel safe and able to protect themselves and others. Magen Am also works with local law enforcement and were involved in a meeting with the LAPD following the protest on Pico. If you witness an antisemitic hate crime, there is also a portal on their website that will take you to file a report to LAPD.
Vist their website for more info:
Shmira
Shmira was started in response to the rise in crime over the last several years. According to their official website, they are a Jewish patrol with the purpose of responding to an increase in aggressive panhandling, looting, and hate incidents. Similarly to Magen Am, Shmira works alongside LAPD and other local safety organizations. Community members can volunteer as a dispatcher or become a trained responder. Shmira can be called whenever you see any kind of suspicious activity.
Visit their website for more info: