Less than a week after antisemitic flags were discovered at Rockwall-Heath High School, a rally was held Thursday night at the Rockwall Historic Courthouse to show support for the local Jewish community.
Rabbi Kalmenson: “Deeply, Deeply Unsettling” for Students
Rabbi Moishy Kalmenson, of Chabad in Rockwall County, expressed the shock and sadness felt by many in the community.
“People are upset… some are shaken,” he said, noting how the incident has deeply affected the Jewish students at Rockwall-Heath High School. With few Jewish students in the school, the discovery of the two antisemitic flags left many feeling particularly targeted.
Investigation and Community Response
The flags were quickly removed, and both Rockwall ISD and Heath police have launched an investigation into who is responsible. McLendon-Chisholm Mayor Bryan McNeal echoed the sentiments of the Jewish community, saying the incident brought up painful memories for many.
“When you see that pain and that hurt in their eyes, you just want to stand up and do something,” he said.
“Fight With Light” Movement Sparks Community Action
In response to the hateful act, Rabbi Kalmenson introduced the “Fight With Light” movement. “It’s important to use this moment as an opportunity to educate—to teach about the dangers of hate and the importance of kindness,” he explained.
Leanne Samra, a rally attendee, emphasized her belief in the need for unity and compassion, saying, “I am a Christian, and I believe in all this, and I believe in no hate.”
Turning Pain into Strength
For the community, the rally represents a chance to turn pain into strength and stand against hate. With support pouring in from all sides, the rally served as a reminder of the power of kindness in the face of adversity.
