Rise In Antisemitism Condemned By Maplewood Officials

MAPLEWOOD AND SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — The Maplewood Township Committee and the South Orange Board of Trustees issued a joint statement denouncing a surge in antisemitic incidents across the nation and reaffirming their commitment to rooting out any form of hate in local communities.

The statement refers to the recent escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

"In the weeks since, some have attempted to link, and even justify, the increase in anti-Jewish rhetoric and behavior in America to this period of violence," the officials wrote. "For many in our towns, particularly those of us who support Israel’s right to exist in safety and security and those of us who are committed to supporting the national aspirations of the Palestinian people, this conflict is personal."

Officials demanded a "full stop" to "any attempt to justify hate" directed toward members of the community.

They referred to a study published by the Anti-Defamation League on June 7 which noted that antisemitic incidents more than doubled in May 2021 compared with May 2020.

The statement highlights the diversity in the South Orange and Maplewood communities as a blessing and a responsibility.

"We have not been immune to the increased bias and hate that has taken root in our nation in recent years," the statement says.

Officials signing the statement — including South Orange Village President Sheena Collum and Maplewood Mayor Frank McGehee — reaffirmed that they:

• Unequivocally stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and condemn antisemitism in all its forms, without exception.
• Call for all local, state, and federal authorities to investigate and prosecute all criminal instances of antisemitism whenever they occur.
• Encourage everyone, especially our leaders, educators, community organizations, and houses of worship to work to understand and oppose antisemitism.
• Reaffirm our commitment to building peaceful and vibrant communities, where all forms of diversity are embraced as a strength.
• Call on all people to share their concerns and perspectives with respect.
• Recommit ourselves to doing everything possible to make our towns the models for diversity, respect, and peace.