Dear Neighbor,
I am very upset to report that antisemitic flyers were dropped on windshields and lawns in the 50th Ward overnight on Sherwin Ave. The flyers were hateful, vile, and absolutely disgusting. I have already spoken with the police commander and this investigation is being treated very seriously. If a flyer was placed on your property, please do NOT throw it out. Any physical evidence you have, or security camera footage, may help the police identify the person responsible.
Unfortunately, flyering has become a common way for antisemites and other bigots to spread their hate. More than a dozen similar incidents have happened across at least seven wards over the last several months. We need a coordinated, citywide approach to dealing with this and other hate incidents.
I met last month with police leadership, impacted aldermen, the head of the Chicago Commission on Human Relations, and representatives from community organizations such as the ADL to discuss developing such a plan. It is part of my work to combat the rising wave of hate in our city and nation. Last year in Chicago, diverse communities were targeted in hate crimes more than 300 times – the highest rate in modern history. We need to reverse this frightening trend.
Please also remember that it is now easier to report hate in Chicago due to my CHI vs Hate legislation, which passed through City Council last year. Anyone who experiences hate or discrimination can now report it through 311, the CHI311 mobile app, or online at 311.chicago.gov. Emergency situations should continue to be reported to 911, but any situation that does not need a police officer response can be reported by creating a "Hate Incident" service request.
Reporting hate allows the city to get a clearer understanding of where incidents are occurring and what resources are needed to keep our community safe.
Sincerely,
Debra L. Silverstein
Alderman, 50th Ward | |
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