By Yisroel Meyers

There has been much discussion about the annual Simchas Beis Hashoeiva that takes place every year in Crown Heights, every night of Sukkos. Many people have expressed frustration, anger, or annoyance at the chaos and disturbances that often occur at and around the event. 

I do not want to focus on the seemingly never-ending list of complaints, as doing so would add negativity, chas v’shalom, to such an important celebration. Rather, I want to focus on what we can do positively to help ensure that this year’s Simchas Beis Hashoeiva is celebrated in the best way possible – for the kavod of the Rebbe and as befitting the Rebbe’s shchuna.

This year the organizers have put tremendous effort into improving the event. In a letter to the community, signed by the Crown Heights Rabbonim, the CHJCC, and community and school leadership, they informed everyone that no street vending of any kind will be permitted, and this will be enforced by the NYPD. 

This is a very positive improvement. While it cannot guarantee everyone’s behavior throughout the neighborhood, it will hopefully ensure that the Simchas Beis Hashoeiva and the immediate surrounding areas reflect the true celebration, eliminating many of the distractions that have caused disturbances in the past.

As a first step, it is important to ask your children to stay at the actual Simchas Beis Hashoeiva and not wander off to other parts of the street or neighborhood. If they are coming to dance and celebrate, this should be done at the actual event and not elsewhere, where they can easily get distracted from what is truly important.

Additionally, I know that many people are hesitant to speak up or interfere in others’ behavior. For those who can and are willing to try, this is a very important mission – and often easier said than done. 

I am not talking about commenting on someone’s choice of dress, the type of music they listen to on headphones, or who they are choosing to hang out with. However, if you notice clearly inappropriate behavior, there is no need to hesitate: gently but firmly let them know that such behavior has no place in our community. 

Many of these young teens are not from our community, and a clear message from a community member can make a difference and will, at the very least, encourage them to reconsider.

Of course, this is not about chasing anyone away. On the contrary, we should approach everyone with love and care, gently reminding them of the neshama – the holy and pure soul – within them. We can also encourage them to join different farbrengens in the neighborhood, some of which are designed specifically for them.

It is my hope that this year’s Simchas Beis Hashoeiva will be celebrated in the Beis Hamikdosh Hashlishi.