House Republican Leader Jesse Topper, Caucus Chair Martina White, and Representatives Kristin Marcell and Joe Hogan have publicly condemned an antisemitic rally organized by the Philly Palestine Coalition in Rittenhouse Square over the weekend. The lawmakers issued a joint statement addressing the nature of the event and its impact on the community.
“Instead of a peaceful protest, what happened in Rittenhouse Square over the weekend was overt hate heading toward acts of terrorism against our Jewish neighbors. For a group to hang effigies of Israeli soldiers and call for martyrdom-style attacks is completely unacceptable and goes well beyond a civil protest. This is a clear call for terroristic attacks on people, including women and children. It cannot be tolerated.
“Antisemitic attacks have been on the rise in recent years, with the Anti-Defamation League noting a shocking 344% increase in incidents over five years. The group also reported an increase in violent assaults, harassment and vandalism, particularly at or near anti-Israel protests, such as the one held in Philadelphia.
“We believe people should be afforded the ability to protest, but it must be done responsibly and unequivocally without threats of violence to others. The recent protest was anything but. There is no justification for celebrating terrorism or threatening violence. Normalizing extremist, antisemitic rhetoric or symbols emboldens hatred and jeopardizes Pennsylvania’s values and the safety of our residents.”
The statement comes amid broader concerns about rising antisemitism nationally. According to data from organizations like the Anti-Defamation League, incidents targeting Jewish individuals have increased significantly in recent years, including acts of violence and vandalism associated with protests.
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