In today’s increasingly challenging climate—where, according to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), antisemitism has reached an all-time high—it is more important than ever to build and sustain strong relationships with a wide range of community stakeholders. “Being outwardly facing is no longer optional—it’s essential,” says Mark Goldhaber, Chair of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) . The JCRC is part of the Jewish Federation of Greater Raleigh and operates throughout Wake County, one of North Carolina’s largest and most diverse counties, encompassing multiple municipalities.

The JCRC’s primary outward-facing initiative is the annual Inter-Community Seder, which brings together key figures across Greater Raleigh including mayors, city councils, county commissioners, law enforcement, school officials, faith-based leaders, nonprofit executives, and members of the business community. One especially meaningful outcome from this event has been the strengthening of relationships with the Hindu community, which has had representatives at ever Inter-Community Seder since the first one in 2022.

While the Jewish community in Greater Raleigh is steadily growing, the Hindu community is expanding even more rapidly, currently planning the construction of five new temples across the region. According to Goldhaber, “Hindu leaders have told us they look to the Jewish community as a model because the challenges we face—especially around inclusion and security—are so similar.”

One such challenge is the rise in hate crimes and the corresponding need for increased security. What began as informal conversations between a small group of Hindu and Jewish leaders quickly evolved into purposeful collaboration. “All good relationships start with food,” Goldhaber notes, describing a festive dinner hosted by the Hindu community that featured traditional dishes from both cultures. That evening, filled with warmth and hospitality, also paved the way for honest and impactful dialogue about shared vulnerabilities.

Every time Jewish leaders expressed concerns about extremism or physical security, Hindu leaders echoed the same fears. These common experiences became a foundation for cooperative action.

A pivotal moment came with the launch of the Tepper Security Grant Program by the Jewish Federations of North America, coordinated through the Secure Community Network (SCN). Beth Richman, Chief Operating Officer of the Jewish Federation of Greater Raleigh, noted that the grant’s emphasis on interfaith collaboration “launched us into full go mode.” The Federation began by offering training in collaboration with local congregations and the Community Security Service (CSS), helping Hindu lay leaders and volunteers gain valuable safety and security knowledge.

The partnership deepened further with a second training session facilitated by SCN, which focused on situational awareness and threat mitigation. “We had 25 leaders from all seven Hindu temples in the room,” Richman recalls. “It was powerful. The session not only enhanced their preparedness—it also sparked meaningful conversations about how to remain welcoming while prioritizing safety.”

Looking ahead, the JCRC sees potential for joint advocacy on state-level legislation to provide security grants for nonprofits—something already enacted in several states but not yet in North Carolina. Another opportunity for partnership could be co-hosting joint Diwali-Chanukah celebrations, recognizing the shared themes of light and resilience in both traditions. The Hindu community also hosts an annual run in which many Jewish community members now participate.

The goal, Goldhaber emphasizes, isn’t quantity—it’s depth. “Building authentic relationships and discovering common ground is more valuable than simply checking boxes. In times like these, deep, trusted relationships aren’t a luxury; they’re a necessity.”

As both communities continue to face challenges, the Hindu-Jewish collaboration in Greater Raleigh stands as a powerful example of what can be accomplished through shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to working together.