An initiative preceding Election Day in the United States aims to ensure Jewish safety at the polls.
The Secure Community Network (SCN) announced a four-part plan on Oct. 23 to counter antisemitic threats against Jewish voters.
“In light of the complex and hostile threat environment facing the Jewish community, it is imperative that we take proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of our community during the election season,” said Michael Masters, SCN’s national director and CEO.
The plan began with an Oct. 17 security bulletin laying out threat concerns to law enforcement, Jewish communal organizations and partners in intelligence. A security resource also went out to Jewish groups. On Election Day, SCN will track and monitor polling places in Jewish neighborhoods.
Masters called voting “a sacred right and obligation in America.” He said that SCN would “ensure Jewish voters have a safe and smooth voting experience that includes access to all of the resources, information, and support they need leading up to Election Day.”
To this end, SCN announced collaboration with the Orthodox Union, Union for Reform Judaism, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and the Anti-Defamation League.
“While no specific, credible threats to the Jewish community are currently linked to Election Day, we urge everyone to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately to poll site volunteers or authorities,” an SCN spokesperson told JNS.
“We encourage organizations to review their security protocols, ensure staff and volunteers are trained to recognize potential threats and collaborate closely with law enforcement,” the spokesperson added. “Voters should likewise remain aware and vigilant of their surroundings and engage with poll workers or other relevant authorities if they feel unsafe or recognize suspicious behavior.”
Ballot boxes in Oregon and Washington near the two states’ border were set on fire on Monday morning in what law enforcement believe are connected incidents, along with another such arson-related fire earlier this month, also in Washington.
According to the latest news reports, “Free Gaza” was written on the incendiary devices.