SPRINGFIELD – Standing in defense of Jewish communities across the nation and responding to the recent murder of two Israeli embassy staff members, State Senator Laura Fine shared the fears felt by Jews and called on fellow lawmakers and the public to stand together against antisemitism during a press conference on Tuesday.

“I am horrified, saddened and heartbroken to address yet another act of terror against our Jewish community. I am also angry that the fears our Jewish community has shared for years have been met with silence, giving way to more violence and normalizing extremism,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “We must respond with urgency, communicate empathy between communities, and take the simple charge of supporting one another.”

Last Wednesday, Sarah Lynn Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, a couple who worked at the Israeli embassy, were leaving an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. As they stood outside the museum, the young couple were mercilessly assassinated in the street by a gunman in an act of terror.

 “There’s no room for antisemitism or any other brand of hatred in Illinois,” said state Rep. Tracy Katz Muhl (D-Northbrook). “Ultimately what will help is honest communication, mutual respect for each other and for the rule of law – both domestically and internationally – and a commitment to lasting peace.”

“Antisemitism has shaken the security and peace within Jewish communities worldwide. In the last decade alone, antisemitic hate crimes in the U.S. have increased nearly by 900%,” said Fine. “To combat hate, we must communicate empathy and support for Jews and Muslims – empathy for Israelis and Palestinians.”

To report a hate crime in Illinois, call 877-458-HATE. Those interested in joining the fight against antisemitism can visit SenatorFine.com/StopTheHate, Fine’s #StopTheHate campaign, to sign a petition and stay updated on combating antisemitism in Illinois.