As you may have read or seen in the last couple of days, there was an antisemitic incident that occurred in Pasadena on Sunday. Flyers blaming Jews for COVID, naming specific members of the CDC, US Department of Health and Human Services, and others, were circulated around Pasadena. 

 

As soon as I became aware of this incident, I immediately called the Pasadena Police Department and notified Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo inquiring about more information on the incident. I also contacted the ADL and our community’s Rabbis, Cantors, Educators, Executive Directors, as well as Synagogue Presidents to make them aware of the incident.

 

The following is the statement I made to the press last night about the incident:

 

"The Jewish community is absolutely appalled by this latest antisemitic incident and act of hate that took place earlier today. To blame the Jewish community not only for the spread of COVID and the institution of safety protocols and measures to help our country confront a worldwide pandemic that is affecting everyone is abhorrent. In addition, to promote a long-standing belief that there is a worldwide Jewish conspiracy is repulsive."

 

Earlier today, I learned that the incident in Pasadena, as well as the one that took place in Beverly Hills, was part of a larger propaganda distribution campaign that hit eight states over the weekend. Click here to read the Algemeiner article about the incidents.

 

The Jewish Federation will continue to monitor the situation and work with the ADL, the City of Pasadena, and Pasadena Police, as well as others, to ensure that the Jewish community is being represented and heard. 

 

I would encourage everyone to continue to be vigilant. And if you see or hear something, please contact your local law enforcement and the Jewish Federation immediately. 

 

This is an example of how the Jewish Federation works to not only strengthen and enhance Jewish life in our community but also serve as the Jewish voice when incidents such as this come up.