As civil protests spread in Los Angeles and across the country, JCRC St. Louis reaffirms its commitment to common sense immigration reform and our steadfast support for democratic norms.
It is deeply concerning to witness the escalation brought about by this latest round of ICE arrests and the rhetoric being used to demonize non-violent immigrant day workers who are vital contributors to our economy.
As our Executive Director David Cohen recently wrote, “We need to stand up for our neighbors being deported BEFORE we need someone to stand up for us.”
And as a case in point, when violence escalates, antisemitism usually rears its ugly head. The violence in LA is no different, and it is tragic that antisemitic graffiti and damage to Jewish owned stores is in any way a part of these protests.
The only way to end this violence is to de-escalate. The vast majority of protests have been non-violent – as can be evidenced by any credible source or from any resident of LA. Government leaders should demonstrate restraint rather than bravado or opportunism.
Any violence associated with this national call for the fair treatment of our immigrant population should be condemned and the assault on police and military personnel is completely unacceptable. We stand with all those around the country who are peacefully defending immigrant communities, civil liberties, and the democratic values we rely on for safety and dignity.
Please see the articles below for additional reporting on the protests, Jewish community calls for an end to ICE arrests, and Jewish leaders calling for all protests to be peaceful.
https://forward.com/fast-forward/727210/california-ice-protests-spark-calls-for-nonviolence-from-jewish-community-leaders
https://forward.com/opinion/726304/ice-los-angeles-immigration-rabbis-national-guard
