One out of every five anti-Semitic incidents that occur in the U.S. are reported in New York, according to a new report by the Anti-Defamation league. In 2017, there were 380 incidents of anti-Semitism — including physical assaults, vandalism, harassment and attacks on Jewish institutions — reported in New York, compared to 199 incidents in 2016.
According to the ADL, the number of anti-Semitic incidents increased by 90 percent from 2016 to 2017. ADL recorded this as the largest single-year increase since they began tracking incidents in the 1970s. More than half of anti-Semitic assaults committed nationwide were reported in New York.
“New Yorkers are seeing an undeniable surge of anti-Semitism and bigotry that we all must confront,” said ADL New York Regional Director Evan Bernstein. “The dramatic increase in harassment, school related incidents and against religious institutions cannot be accepted as a ‘new normal.’”
Among the 380 incidents reported, there were 236 incidents of vandalism, 133 incidents of harassment and 11 incidents of assault. In the five boroughs of New York City 234 incidents were reported, increasing 90 percent compared to 2016.
Bernstein encourages public officials and law enforcement to use their platform to speak out against anti-Semitic incidents and all acts of hate.
“This kind of hate hurts the victim and deeply impacts the Jewish community; we must remain vigilant in denouncing and exposing hate wherever it emerges,” said Bernstein. “We know that when anti-Semitism is on the rise, so too are other forms of hate.”
Last year ADL addressed anti-Semitic incidents and behavior by going to 175 schools to educate youth by talking about anti-bias and anti-bullying training to prevent these incidents. They also worked with and trained over 550 law enforcement officials to apprehend predators.
In addition to these steps taken to prevent anti-Semitic incidents, victims and bystanders are encouraged to report all incidents to ADL and local police. College faculty, staff and administrators should be trained to respond effectively to hate crime incidents, the group says.
“ADL’s mission to stop the defamation and secure justice and fair treatment for all must be pursued at all levels,” said Bernstein. “That is why we are redoubling our efforts to educate, advocate and engage schools, law enforcement, elected leaders and community leaders to ensure we are standing together against anti-Semitism and bigotry.”
