Jewish groups defy D.C. heat to protest soaring anti-Semitism
According to the Anti-Defamation League, that month saw a significant rise in anti-Semitic incidents. There were 251 incidents between May 11 and May 31, up 115% compared to the same period in 2020. These incidents included 11 cases of physical assault, 90 cases of harassment, and 50 cases of vandalism. And the violence spilled over into June, as well.
Sunday’s rally drew people of all ages, from as far away as Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, at the height of summer vacation, bringing signs and folding chairs, for a display of solidarity with their fellow Jews. They hefted signs calling for fighting anti-Semitism and ending the hatred. Many came by transport arranged by their community or synagogue, but others drove alone or with family, making the hours-long journey to be at the rally and make their voice heard.
An unlikely coalition of organizations came together to sponsor the rally: umbrella organizations such as the Jewish Federations of North America and the Jewish Agency, communal organizations such as the OU, and even the Republican Jewish Coalition and the Jewish Democratic Council of America, two rival groups that joined forces for a common goal.
“It’s an opportunity for the Jewish community to stand together,” Ron Klein, chairman of JDCA, told Mishpacha. “This is not about politics. We can differ on lots of policies, but this is about protecting the Jewish community and fighting against anti-Semitism.
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