Jul 28, 2014
Greater Miami Jewish Federation Condemns Miami-Area Anti-Semitic, Anti-Israel Actions
On behalf of the Officers, Board of Directors and Staff of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, we express our shock and outrage at the anti-Semitic acts that took place in Miami-Dade County over the past several days. Two cars parked outside the Miami Beach home of an Orthodox family were defaced with eggs and messages of hate during the eve of the Jewish Sabbath on Friday, July 25. In addition, Congregation Torah V’Emunah in North Miami Beach was discovered spray-painted with swastikas in the early morning of Monday, July 28. In both cases, the word “Hamas” was included as part of the hateful act.
“While a police investigation is under way, we stand in unity with all people of goodwill in condemning these senseless acts of vandalism, both of which are clearly linked to the ongoing crisis between Israel and Hamas,” said Federation Chair of the Board Robert G. Berrin.
“Let's be clear, assaults against individual members of the Jewish community or a Jewish house of worship are not criticisms of a government policy; they are plain and simple manifestations of anti-Semitism, an ancient evil that continues to plague the world," said President and CEO Jacob Solomon. “It is chilling and deeply disturbing to contemplate that these acts were perpetrated as expressions of anti-Semitism and bigotry right here in our own community."
During this stressful and emotional time, when so many in our community are concerned for the welfare of all innocent people in harm’s way, and are praying for a swift and permanent end to the conflict, we and all those who value peace and understanding are deeply saddened by these senseless acts. The Jewish community is blessed to have many friends of all faiths who lend support in times such as these and we call on all decent people to decry the ugliness that motivates hateful behavior.
Our commitment to the security of our local institutions and community residents is reflected in our Jewish Community Relations Council’s ongoing collaboration with the Secure Community Network, the Anti-Defamation League and local law enforcement, which work together to ensure that we all remain vigilant on issues of safety 365 days a year.
