Michigan Jewish Democrats Alarmed by Rise in Anti-Jewish Hate Crimes, Call on Democrats in Congress, Biden-Harris Administration to Take Action
WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. — The Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus issued the following statement in response to the growing number of violent attacks targeting Jews in cities across the United States, as well as Canada and the European Union:
“We are profoundly alarmed by the rise in targeted attacks on Jews and Jewish institutions across our country over the past week. While the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hamas and the protracted Israeli-Palestinian Conflict are deeply distressing and heartwrenching for so many, seeking retribution against Jews and Jewish institutions for the actions of the Israeli government is heinous and criminal.
We are also disturbed by the incendiary rhetoric used by a number of members of congress, which has done nothing but inflame tensions across the country. We are disappointed that so many who claim to be leaders have chosen to reduce the fine points of reality to fit their agenda of outrage, rather than educate their constituents about the multifaceted and nuanced realities that undergird the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
As Democrats, we believe the strength of America arises in part from our diversity. As Democrats, we believe that protecting vulnerable communities from hate is a core priority for government. We call on Democrats in Congress and the Biden-Harris administration to lead on this issue, and immediately begin work to supplement the recently-passed COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act with provisions attuned to the specific nature of targeted attacks against the Jewish community.
Finally, justice for Palestinians will never be found by spilling Jewish blood in the streets of American cities. Resolving the complex final status issues between Israel and Palestinians will take robust diplomatic efforts, and we urge the Biden-Harris administration to use the tools at its disposal to urge constructive dialogue between the Israeli and Palestinian governments, with an eye to the resumption of final status negotiations.”
###
About: The Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus is the voice of Jewish Michiganders in the Democratic Party, dedicated to combating antisemitism and electing Democrats who share our values. In addition to supporting candidates through state and federal PACs, MDJC works to strengthen the link between Michigan’s Jews and Democrats through strong communications and public forums, to increase Jewish representation in Michigan politics, and to advocate for progressive policies that benefit all Michiganders.
CONTACT: Noah Arbit, Chair
(248) 325-8560