It is with profound sorrow that the Beit Echad congregation joins the entire Jewish community in mourning the tragic and senseless deaths of Sarah Milgrim, known personally by many of our members, and her soon-to-be fiancé Yaron Lischinsky.

The brutal, unprovoked murder of our Kansas City neighbor was committed for no reason other than their Jewish identity — a horrifying act that reflects the consequences of a society increasingly unwilling to confront rising antisemitism.

For too long, segments of our media and educational institutions have tolerated, downplayed, or even excused hateful rhetoric and support for terrorist organizations. In doing so, they have contributed to the erosion of truth and the poisoning of public discourse, leaving communities vulnerable and hearts broken.

We mourn. We remember. And we call on all people of conscience to stand against hate — clearly, publicly, and without excuse.

A devastating loss of human life.

Sarah Milgrim, a Jewish American, and her boyfriend Yaron Lischinsky were murdered in Washington, DC by a man radicalized by propaganda, brainwashing, and extremism. He believed he was a martyr showcasing heroic resistance. But he wasn’t. He is a cold-blooded, disgusting murderer. He committed an act of terrorism.

Yaron was planning to propose to Sarah in Israel next week. Their futures full of love, purpose, and possibility were stolen in an instant.

Although I was not personally close with Sarah, I knew her from our time at the University of Kansas. And even if I hadn’t, when a Jewish life is taken, especially someone like Sarah, it hits close to home. The grief is collective. The pain is personal.

The murderer/terrorist could have used his life to promote and spread light and peace. Instead, he allowed his potential to be twisted into violence. That is a tragedy in itself.

But what makes this even more painful is that Sarah was already dedicating her life to peace building. She worked with Tech2Peace, KU Hillel, and countless organizations focused on dialogue, diplomacy, and coexistence. She wasn’t just talking about peace, she was actively building it, and she was targeted anyway.

As Jews, we are taught to choose life, to build bridges, to pursue justice. And what’s devastating is that even those who devote themselves to these values are being hunted by people so radicalized they believe Jewish life is expendable.

This wasn’t just anti-Israel sentiment. This was antisemitism. The “Free Palestine” movement, as it’s being used and distorted across campuses and platforms today, has become a cover for hate. What once claimed to be a human rights cause is now fueling dehumanization, brainwashing, and violence.

There is no sense to be made here. No way to hold this level of grief. Just heartbreak. Just loss. Just the unbearable reality that two beautiful lives were taken for nothing.

May their memories be a blessing. May we never grow numb to this pain. And may their souls be a catalyst for the world to wake up, to reject hatred disguised as justice, and to no longer sit in silence.

Written by Shayna R.

STATEMENT FROM KU CHABAD ON THE TRAGIC MURDER OF OUR DEAR ALUMNA, SARAH MILGRIM

Dear Friends,

It is with a broken heart and unimaginable sorrow that we share the tragic news of the murder of our dear alumna, Sarah Milgrim, who was killed in a terrorist attack Wednesday evening alongside her beloved partner, Yaron Lischinsky, during a peaceful event at Washington’s Capital Jewish Museum.

Sarah was a proud Jewhawk, a graduate of the University of Kansas, and an active, deeply loved member of our KU Jewish community. She joined us often for Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, and countless Jewish programs, always bringing her warm smile, gentle spirit, and deep passion for her Jewish heritage. She was not only a joy to be around but a true embodiment of grace, empathy, and purpose.

After her time at KU, Sarah went on to pursue graduate studies at American University’s School of International Service and worked tirelessly to promote peace between Israel and its neighbors. Most recently, she joined the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., continuing her mission of building bridges and bringing light into a world that too often feels dark.

Her life was a beacon of hope and humanity. Her loss is a devastating blow to all who knew her and to the values she stood for.

We strongly condemn this act of terrorism and the rising tide of antisemitism that has no place in our country or our world. At a time when Jews across America are facing increased hate and threats, we must respond with unity, pride, and an unwavering commitment to stand together.

While we are shocked and in disbelief, at the same time we must not give in to panic, bitterness, or self-pity. We, the Jewish people are a collective affirmation of life. Our existence and achievements are a living testimony to one of Judaism's greatest messages to humankind: the principled defeat of tragedy by the power of hope. Because that’s what we Jews do.

As we pause to consider the enormity of the tragedy and ponder the question, "what can I do about it?" In the face of this darkness, let us look to illuminate the soul of another. In the face of such tragic death, make a difference to one other life. We fight darkness with light. We fight hatred with love.

Let's have Sarah and Yaron in our prayers while actively bringing more light, more goodness, and more kindness into the world. Please pray for those injured in this terrible attack and do a Mitzvah in memory of the deceased and may G-d send comfort to those who mourn and healing to those injured.

AM YISRAEL CHAI – We the Jewish people have, are and will live on forever more.

With our love and prayers,

Rabbi Zalman and Nechama Tiechtel

Directors. Chabad at KU

Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky