In a rare show of solidarity, all 25 Jewish members of the U.S. House of Representatives, both Democrats and Republicans, condemned the Chanukah attack in Australia, saying the victims “were grotesquely targeted with hate and murderous intent.” Along those lines, they are calling for more action to fight Jew-hatred.
Reacting to the shooting deaths of 15 people celebrating the Jewish holiday on Bondi Beach, in what authorities said was an act of terrorism, the lawmakers joined “leaders around the globe in condemning this evil act and in calling for justice, peace and unwavering support for those affected.”
“We also call on all leaders to do better standing up to antisemitism,” they said.
“On a night meant for celebration, Jewish families in Australia, gathering in joy and peace on the first night of Chanukah, were grotesquely targeted with hate and murderous intent,” the 21 Democrats and four Republicans stated.
“Sadly, this attack does not come as a surprise to the Jewish community of Sydney, who have been raising a clarion call for local and national authorities to take concrete steps against a rising tide of antisemitism,” the lawmakers wrote.
They added that they “extend our condolences to the family and friends of the people murdered, and are praying for the complete recovery of the dozens wounded and the entire Jewish community feeling besieged.”
“Antisemitism is a cancer that eats at the core of society,” they added, “whether in Australia, the United States or anywhere it is allowed to take root and grow.”
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), who is Jewish, said the “horrific antisemitic terrorist attack” is “beyond appalling.”
“It is a shocking reminder that antisemitism and hate is not only toxic and far too present and widespread around the world, it is deadly. It must be vigorously condemned, confronted and overcome,” he said. “As Jewish communities light the Chanukah candles around the world, a holiday of light and dedication, may we find light in the darkness and rededicate ourselves to fighting the scourge of hate.”
