After a tragic shooting on a Sydney beach that killed at least 15 people, a mother in Austin is rethinking whether to bring her 5‑month‑old son to the city’s Hanukkah celebration.
Jordan Magidson, a member of Temple Beth Shalom, questioned whether she should take her little boy to Sunday’s Hanukkah event. “Something that we often think about, you know, will we be safe during an event … should he even be here?,” she said. The thought crossed her mind after two accused shooters opened fire on a crowd celebrating the holiday on a popular beach in Sydney, Australia, on Sunday. Authorities say at least 15 died.
The incident prompted the Austin Police Department to increase its officers’ presence around the city. “Out of an abundance of caution, and as Hanukkah begins this evening, APD will maintain a visible presence at Jewish houses of worship and at related events taking place throughout our city,” a city of Austin spokesperson told KXAN on Sunday. “We encourage our community to remain alert and to look out for one another. If you see something that looks or feels suspicious, say something. If you observe any suspicious behavior or become aware of a potential threat, it is imperative you report it by calling 9‑1‑1.”
Jewish community members and faith leaders noted that the increased law‑enforcement presence makes them feel safer, even as the Sydney attack and other antisemitic acts leave them uneasy. “I don’t want to live in fear. I don’t want any of my congregants to live in fear,” Temple Beth Shalom Rabbi Eleanor Steinman said. She added that her congregation went on with its party as planned, choosing light over darkness. “Unfortunately, this is we have known as a people dark times before,” Steinman said. “We have to find the moments and the ways that we can spark that joy, that we can bring light, that we can celebrate, and that we can be hopeful that there will be better days ahead.”
Magidson described the sense of unity that the celebration brought. “Jewish joy is one of the most important things that we can kind of exhibit in moments like this,” she said. “It’s an act of defiance in itself. And so bringing everybody together, it really felt like we were fighting some of the antisemitism that the Jewish community has been facing.”
A photo taken at home shows Magidson lighting a menorah with her 5‑month‑old son on his first Hanukkah. (Photo provided by: Jordan Magidson)
The first night of Hanukkah has become a time for reflection and resilience. Synagogues and congregants across Austin felt the weight of recent antisemitic events as they prepared to celebrate. Yet the community’s determination to light a candle and hold a gathering in the face of danger speaks to a deeper commitment to hope and togetherness.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
