In response to the growing intolerance against Islam expressed in Donald Trump’s call for a ban on all Muslims entering the U.S., Jewish activists in 15 cities are celebrating Chanukah by holding vigils against Islamophobia and racial profiling.

Members of Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) gathered at the Ohio State University on December 12. They held eight signs representing the candles of the menorah, each with a statement opposing a different form of racism or religious intolerance.

“Islamophobia is a frightening and terrible thing,” said JVP member Charlene Fix. “I don’t want any people to be hurt that way my people were hurt.”

Fix cautioned against laughing at Trump and underestimating the damage he can do. “Donald Trump is a scary demagogue,” she said. “I think he’s a dangerous person. I don’t know what he really thinks. He’s whipping out pieces of hatred because it works. He says don’t be afraid, I’m here. The problems we face are a little more complicated than that.”

 “We’re a national, growing, grassroots organization that is interested in doing whatever we can to help to make peace between Israel and the Palestinians,” said Farrell Brody. “Today our priority is Islamophobia. Since Jews know something about oppression themselves, it should be our duty to fight any kind of oppression.”

There are about 60 JVP chapters in the U.S., with over 500,000 members and allies.

 “I’m here because I’m Jewish,” said Sarah Snyder. “I think it’s really important that we stand up for Muslims in this country and around the world, and fight the Islamophobic rhetoric and policies.”

Snyder had nothing to say in response to Donald Trump’s campaign rhetoric and proposals. “I hate how much coverage he’s been getting in the media,” she said. “It’s so vitriolic and so extreme that it’s not even worth talking about.”