Bob Milgrim, the father of Sarah Milgrim, who tragically lost her life alongside fellow Israeli Embassy employee Yaron Lischinsky at the Capital Jewish Museum last month, expressed that enhanced security measures could have potentially thwarted the shooting. During a gathering on Wednesday with leaders from Jewish Federations of North America and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, Milgrim underscored the pressing need for increased security resources to safeguard the Jewish community.
Milgrim shared his thoughts, stating that more vigilant security at the event where his daughter was killed might have allowed law enforcement to identify the shooter before he acted. He recounted the heavy police presence that was necessary during the shiva period for his daughter in Kansas, emphasizing the significant risks faced by the Jewish community. Milgrim recalled a 2014 antisemitic attack at a Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, Kansas, highlighting a history of threats within their community.
Reflecting on Sarah’s experiences as an embassy employee, Milgrim noted that she often dealt with harassment and safety concerns. At one point, the embassy even arranged transportation for staff to mitigate risks posed by protesters outside. He recounted harrowing incidents where Sarah faced aggressive individuals pursuing her while yelling anti-Israel slogans, making her feel unsafe.
Milgrim urged Jewish leaders to advocate for comprehensive security at all events, including armed personnel and a visible police presence. He praised his daughter’s deep love for Judaism and Israel, which had blossomed since her childhood, particularly as she prepared for her bat mitzvah, which she wished to celebrate in Israel. This journey inspired her eventual role at the Israeli Embassy.
The sentiments expressed by Milgrim serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by communities in their quest for safety and remembrance. The push for increased security reflects a broader need to protect vulnerable populations, particularly in light of rising antisemitism. Communities can find hope in the resilience shown by families like the Milgrims, who honor their loved ones by advocating for a safer future for others.