Statement from the Philadelphia Holocaust Remembrance Foundation: Yesterday, we gathered with community members at the Holocaust Memorial Plaza for an educational program. When the program concluded we thanked the police who were present to ensure our safety. In the midst of continuously rising antisemitic attacks, security concerns are high. Years ago, security personnel were not needed to run a public program. Then last night, the news broke that a group of Jewish people had been attacked in Boulder, CO, during a weekly event calling for the return of the Israeli hostages. This is not normal, this is not 'political activism’, this is terrorism. Jewish people should be able to gather without fear of violence. It is incumbent upon all of us to recognize that unchecked hateful speech can lead to violence. (fb)

Statement from the Philadelphia Holocaust Remembrance Foundation: We were horrified and saddened to learn of the murders of two Jewish young adults outside of the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington DC last night. This targeted violence is yet another terrible act that is rooted in antisemitism in our country. We believe that we must teach about the lessons of the Holocaust to build a future of tolerance. This includes understanding how hateful rhetoric can turn into deadly violence. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by this tragedy and we stand with our Jewish community during this challenging time. (fb)