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A growing number of Jewish people are investing in firearms for self-defense, even in New York, a state known for strict gun laws.
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We have some of the highest rates of anti-Semitism in the country
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Being Jewish, I have to fear for my life every day wherever I go
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At a gun range in a suburb of New York City, Jay Werner and a growing number of other Jewish people
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are honing their shooting skills through a club called Locks and Loaded
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With more than 20 chapters nationwide, including three near New York City
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The club bills itself as Jewish-owned and operated. It formed in response to rising anti-Semitism in America
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and the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks in Israel. Anti-Semitism has shaped the lives of members like Werner
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who still recalls an incident that happened when he was 12. And I got jumped from behind by two guys who beat the snot out of me
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called me a dirty Jew, didn't steal anything, just beat the snot out of me and walked away
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Do I recognize that there is absolutely a threat out there of anti-Semitism and it's growing exponentially on a daily basis
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Yes, I do. Do I think that Jews should learn how to defend themselves
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Absolutely. Is owning a firearm and learning how to use a firearm part of that
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Absolutely as well. Last year marked the second highest year for hate crimes since the FBI started tracking such offenses in 1991
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Though Jewish people account for just 2% of the U.S. population, the FBI 2024 report said 70 of hate crimes were anti attacks After October 7th not only myself but everybody in operations and everybody with the company
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felt the need to do something, to physically and mentally help the community
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help other people. And instead of donating money or volunteering, it was a thought, being a firearms instructor
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why not train? Why not help facilitate the training of people in the community
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Why not make it easy for people in the community and allies to get proper, safe training
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New Yorkers face some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. Just last month, a federal appeals court upheld a ban on carrying firearms in so-called sensitive areas of New York City
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like the subway or Times Square. And Jewish Americans are less likely to own guns than those of other faiths
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A 2018 poll found 70% of Jewish people surveyed said gun control outweighed the right to bear arms
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Locks and Loaded has experienced some pushback. Locks and Loaded spokesperson Ian Friedman told Straight Arrow News
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quote, There are people who post anonymous comments from time to time who are critical of the organization
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for reasons that vary from opposition to firearms all the way to the other side
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which is blatant anti-Semitism. Friedman added the club expected challenges, but is meant to empower everyone in the Jewish community
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For more in-depth reporting, head to san.com or download the Straight Arrow News app
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