Jewish Americans Arm Themselves with Non-Lethal Weapons Amidst Rising Antisemitism

Jewish Americans are arming themselves with a non-lethal weapon called the Byrna launcher in response to rising antisemitism. The launcher, which fires a kinetic round capable of breaking car windows from 30 feet away, can also deliver a painful impact and a chemical irritant that causes a burning sensation on the skin.

Jewish Americans, facing a surge in antisemitism across the country, are taking self-defense precautions during the back-to-school season and the high holidays. The Community Security Service (CSS), which provides security training and support to Jewish institutions and communities, has seen a "massive increase in demand" for its services in the 11 months since the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks.

Richard Priem, CEO of CSS, emphasizes that the organization aims to empower Jewish Americans with the tools and skills to "take ownership" of their own security. By training volunteers and providing them with non-lethal weapons like the Byrna launcher, CSS hopes to create an additional layer of community security.

Jewish Americans Arm Themselves with Non-Lethal Weapons Amidst Rising Antisemitism

The Byrna launcher, developed by Byrna Technologies, has gained popularity among Jewish Americans in jurisdictions with strict gun control laws. The launcher does not require a background check or permit to purchase, making it accessible to those who may not have experience with firearms.

According to Luan Pham, chief revenue and marketing officer at Byrna Technologies, the launcher has sold over 500,000 units in the past five years. After the Oct. 7 attacks, Pham witnessed a significant surge in purchases from members of the Jewish community.

Jewish Americans Arm Themselves with Non-Lethal Weapons Amidst Rising Antisemitism

The Byrna launcher can be used to de-escalate an aggressor without causing serious injury or death. Upon impact, the kinetic round creates a six-foot dispersion cloud of chemical irritants that cause a burning sensation and temporarily disorients the attacker.

Pham highlights the ease of use and accessibility of the Byrna launcher, which can be trained on any private property without the need for firearms experience. The company has also provided training to dozens of churches and other institutions on how to protect themselves.

Jewish Americans Arm Themselves with Non-Lethal Weapons Amidst Rising Antisemitism

According to the New York City Police Department's hate crimes dashboard, Jewish victims have been targeted in 200 out of the 329 confirmed hate crimes recorded from the start of the year until June 25. A report released by New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli reveals an 89% increase in hate crimes against Jewish New Yorkers between 2018 and 2023.

Priem emphasizes the need for a "zero tolerance approach" to harassment and intimidation targeting Jewish Americans. Law enforcement agencies are urged to enforce existing laws preventing masking in public and loud noises in residential areas to create a safe and respectful environment for all.

Jewish Americans Arm Themselves with Non-Lethal Weapons Amidst Rising Antisemitism

In addition to training and equipping volunteers, CSS is also working with students on campuses across the country to provide them with situational awareness, self-defense, and de-escalation skills. This training aims to give students the confidence and resilience to handle hostile environments and advocate for their own safety.

Priem stresses that the goal of the training is not to create a confrontational posture but to empower Jewish Americans with the ability to protect themselves and their communities from acts of antisemitism. By providing non-lethal weapons, training, and support, organizations like CSS are working to create a safer and more inclusive society for all.