Despite concerns regarding the “day of hate” planned by Neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups, Shomrim is assuring the public that at this time, there are no active and credible threats to the Crown Heights Jewish community.
By Anash.org reporter
Despite concerns regarding the “day of hate” planned by Neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups, Shomrim is assuring the public that at this time, there are no active and credible threats to the Crown Heights Jewish community.
Last month, a small anti-Semitic group based in eastern Iowa designated Feb. 25 as a “day of hate,” and other white supremacist and hate groups have since said they plan to participate, according to the Anti-Defamation League.
Over the past few weeks, individuals associated with other white supremacist groups and networks have indicated they will participate. These groups and networks have membership and supporters scattered around the country including the Goyim Defense League, Active Clubs and National Socialist Movement.
In response, Police departments around the country have been urging Jewish communities to be extra vigilant. In a memo sent to the community, the NYPD said to “maintain elevated situational awareness and vigilance.”
The Orthodox Union said it is in touch with its partners at the Secure Community Network as well as the Department of Homeland Security and FBI, and “are not aware of threats to specific Jewish institutions.”
In addition, police in South Florida sent this message to Jewish residents: “Over the past several weeks a handful of known antisemitic, white supremacist, and neo-Nazi groups have encouraged their followers to participate in a “National Day of Hate” this coming Saturday, Feb. 25. The event is meant as a call to action for followers to conduct in-person propaganda efforts across the US. The antisemitic activity will likely include in-person demonstrations, flyering efforts, stickering efforts, banner drops, and vandalism.
“Two of the organizations behind this initiative – GDL and NSM – have a footprint in South Florida. At this time, we are not aware of any specific, credible threats of violence to the Jewish community as it pertains to this report; however, we encourage you to be vigilant for non-violent in-person demonstrations, flyering, stickering, laser projections and/or banner drops.”
In the past few days, Crown Heights Shomrim has been inundated with calls from residents concerned about threats to the Crown Heights neighborhood.
“In light of recent reports indicating a possible threat and day of hate against our communities, Shomrim is in touch with local authorities, and at this time, there are no active and credible threats,” Shomrim said in a statement released to Anash.org.
“Needless to say, and as always, everyone should still stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings in case of emergency or suspicious activity, call: 911 and shomrim 718-774-3333.”
This is a wake up call to each and every one of us, to increase the awareness and observance of the Sheva Mitzvos, and implement a moment of silence in the public schools.