What happened
The Jewish Federation of Detroit’s office was defaced with antisemitic messages, including “Intifada,” “F*** Israel,” and “Free Palestine” on October 7th—an important day of remembrance for the community. The attack is a reminder of the undercurrent of hate against Jewish people.
Why it matters
This is not just an attack on a building, but an attack on the very heart of a community that stands as a pillar of support for Jewish people in Detroit and beyond. This incident, marked by the use of demoralizing slogans and symbols, signifies the persistence of antisemitism which continues to surface in alarming ways.
The bigger picture
The vandalism incident comes amid a troubling rise in antisemitic acts, most recently including an attempted armed robbery targeting a rabbi’s house during Rosh Hashanah, and the dissemination of harmful flyers in Metro Detroit. This stream of hostility underscores the necessity of heightened vigilance and mutual support within and outside the Jewish community.
What they’re saying
The Jewish Federation expressed their distress about the attack, recognizing it as a significant reminder of the pervasive hate challenging Jewish communities. Despite this, they remain resolute, continuing their noble work supporting Israel and their local community while combating antisemitism.
Commendable Support
Your commitment to amplifying supportive voices is essential. The Jewish Federation thanked law enforcement agencies for their swift and continuous support, showcasing unity and resilience in combating these fires of hate.
This story was first published on jpost.com.