STATEMENT ON RECENT ANTI-SEMITIC INCIDENTS

Sacramento, CA – The California Legislative Jewish Caucus issued the following statement in response to recent anti-Semitic incidents and rhetoric:

“We are deeply troubled by acts of hate that have targeted Jewish communities and institutions across California in recent weeks, including incidents in Ojai, Orange County, the San Fernando Valley, downtown Los Angeles, and near the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust.  These were separate incidents, but a clear sign that anti-Semitic acts are becoming far too common.  This is unacceptable and requires a firm response.”

“Meanwhile, our national discourse has advanced disturbing stereotypes about Jews and treated anti-Semitism as a political football.  While we are committed to combating hatred of all forms—including racism, sexism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, homophobia, and transphobia—we can never be afraid to specifically call out anti-Semitism, regardless of political affiliation.”

“Last year, the Jewish Caucus helped secure funding to support the Museum of Tolerance. This year, we are working to find new ways to advance Holocaust education, combat intolerance, and protect Jewish communities across California.  When our caucus met recently with Governor Gavin Newsom, much of our conversation focused on this work.  We are committed to working closely with the Governor and our colleagues to fight anti-Semitism and to promote diversity and inclusion—ideals that are central to our Jewish, American, and California values.”

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