39-24 Resolution re Antisemitism 4869-7312-9882 v.1.pdf

4835-7218-2502, v. 1 • Denying the fact, scope, mechanisms (e.g. gas chambers) or intentionality of the genocide of the Jewish people at the hands of National Socialist Germany and its supporters and accomplices during World War II (the Holocaust). • Accusing the Jews as a people, or Israel as a state, of inventing or exaggerating the Holocaust. • Accusing Jewish citizens of being more loyal to Israel, or to the alleged priorities of Jews worldwide, than to the interests of their own nations. • Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, e.g., by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor. • Applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation. • Using the symbols and images associated with classic antisemitism (e.g., claims of Jews killing Jesus or blood libel) to characterize Israel or Israelis. • Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis. • Holding Jews collectively responsible for actions of the state of Israel. Antisemitic discrimination is the denial to Jews of opportunities or services available to others and is illegal in many countries. WHEREAS, the Township acknowledges the following attacks which were horrific and impact all persons: (i) the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh on October 27, 2018; (ii) the Chabad of Poway in San Diego on April 27, 2019; (iii) the Kosher supermarket in Jersey City on December 10, 2019; and (iv) a Chanukah gathering in Monsey, New York on December 28, 2019. As a result, all houses of faith especially West Orange synagogues were compelled to re- evaluate their own security measures to keep their congregations safe; WHEREAS, swastikas have been found on the sidewalk in front of Temple B’nai Shalom which were vigorously investigated by the West Orange Police Department as well as on the bridge at South Mountain Arena and in many public schools in and around West Orange. In 2023, a Livingston Board of Education school bus was stolen and the suspect found to have a journal that contained notes about jihad and other language against Jewish people and law