Highland Park condemns ‘acts of hate' after antisemitic letter reportedly sent to resident; ‘we will not be intimidated'
After an 'antisemitic' and 'threatening' letter was sent to a Highland Park resident, Mayor Nancy Rotering said the city stands with its Jewish community.
According to an online post by the city, the Highland Park police are continuing to investigate the letter that was reported Sunday evening. Preliminary investigation indicated it had been sent through the United States Postal Service. Testing by the Hazardous Material team showed no toxic material.
Highland Park 'strongly condemns antisemitism,' the post said. 'Our Jewish community deserves to live free from fear of violence, and Highland Park police will continue to partner with regional, state, and federal law enforcement to monitor antisemitic and other hate-motivated activity.'
According to the post, at about 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, police responded to a residence in the 900 block of Marion Avenue for a report of a threatening letter containing antisemitic comments in their mailbox. The police notified the FBI and the State Terrorism and Intelligence Center, the post said.
In the post, the city condemned 'antisemitism and all acts of hate' and professed its solidarity with the Jewish community
'In light of increased concerns regarding global antisemitic activity,' Highland Park police had already implemented a close watch on houses of worship and other significant sites, which will continue. The city has also communicated with clergy serving Highland Park's Jewish congregations.
Rotering said the incident has 'shaken' many in the community, and was a reminder that even in a city striving 'to lead with compassion and inclusion — hate can still find its way to our doorstep.'
She warned antisemitism was rising 'not only across the world, but here at home,' and acknowledging the 'fear, the hurt and the anger that such acts provoke.'
'We also understand the pride and strength that come from standing firm in who we are, and in what we believe,' Rotering said.
Jewish families are a part of the 'story and the fabric of Highland Park for generations,' Rotering said, noting their contributions to the city's civic, cultural and spiritual life.
'That legacy will not be erased or overshadowed by hate,' she said. 'To anyone who feels afraid or targeted: please know that you are not alone. Your city stands with you. We will not be intimidated. We will not be silent. We will meet hate with unity — and with the full strength of our community.
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