Across the United States, and here in Maine, communities that once felt safe are confronting a new climate of fear. Houses of worship, cultural centers, and immigrant organizations are increasingly facing threats driven by hate, misinformation, and political polarization. In this episode, we look at a rare and powerful response: faith leaders, immigrant advocates, and civil society groups in Maine coming together across religious and cultural lines to protect vulnerable communities. At the center of this effort is LD 2107, a bill that would create a Nonprofit Security Grant Program to help organizations strengthen their safety without sacrificing their mission. Through a conversation with Zach Schwartz, director of the Jewish Community Relations Council at the Jewish Community Alliance, we explore rising antisemitism, threats facing African and immigrant communities, and why solidarity — not silence — is essential in moments like this. This is a story about fear, yes — but also about courage, memory, and unity. You’re listening to Amjambo Time. As we close today’s episode, one message stands out clearly: security is not just about locks, cameras, or guards — it is about dignity, belonging, and the right to exist without fear. From synagogues to mosques, churches to cultural associations, the coalition behind LD 2107 shows what is possible when communities refuse to be divided by hate. Their work reminds us that history — from the Holocaust to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi — teaches a painful but urgent lesson: violence does not begin with weapons, but with words, exclusion, and indifference. What’s happening in Maine is more than a local legislative effort. It is a model of solidarity in a fractured world — a reminder that when one community is threatened, all are at risk, and when communities stand together, they become stronger. If you’re in Maine, your voice matters. Engage, testify, and speak out. And wherever you are listening from, remember: protecting vulnerable communities is not optional — it is a shared responsibility. Thank you for listening to Amjambo Time. I’m Eloge Willy Kaneza.Until next time — stay informed, stay engaged, and stay human.
