El H.
Google
While I appreciate having a non-Chabad synagogue in town and initially wanted to be supportive, I had a very uncomfortable experience during my first visit.
As an autistic person, I quietly self-regulate to help me focus. During the service, an usher struck me on the back from behind — harder than a light touch — in an apparent attempt to stop a harmless stim (playing with a hair tie), despite me being attentive and non-disruptive.
The physical contact was unexpected and forceful enough to startle me, and it made me feel ashamed and unsafe. It significantly impacted my experience as a first-time visitor.
I hope the synagogue will consider accessibility, consent, and appropriate physical boundaries with congregants — especially first-time visitors and disabled individuals.