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Contact: David Robbins | (917) 472-9982 | [email protected]

CSS Expresses Concern Over Series of Antisemitic Incidents During Hanukkah

New York, NY, December 20, 2020 … The Community Security Service (CSS) today said it was “deeply concerned” by the series of antisemitic incidents that took place across the country during the Hanukkah holiday.

            Across the country, Jewish communities were harassed, vandalized and assaulted. At the University of Kentucky, a member of Chabad was dragged and run over by a car outside the University’s Jewish student center during a menorah lighting. In Brooklyn, New York, a yeshiva was defaced with antisemitic graffiti. In Iowa, a synagogue was vandalized. On Long Island, New York, a high school was hacked with Nazi propaganda, and at Dartmouth College, a menorah was shot at with pellet guns.

            “We are deeply concerned by this string of antisemitic incidents that afflicted Jewish communities during Hanukkah celebrations,” said Evan Bernstein, CSS CEO. “We welcome efforts by law enforcement to hold the perpetrators accountable.”

            Mr. Bernstein added, “At the same time, CSS will continue to train Jewish volunteers across the country to protect their institutions and events. Our mission is to protect Jewish life and the Jewish way of life, and this includes celebrating the Jewish holidays in a safe and secure environment.

            Similarly in October, CSS raised concerns regarding a number of antisemitic incidents that targeted Jewish communities in the United States and across the globe during the High Holidays, and issued a reminder to Jewish institutions that “basic but fundamental security routines can make a tangible difference in the realm of safety.”

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About Community Security Service (CSS):
The Community Security Service (CSS) proactively protects the people, institutions, and events of the American Jewish community. Partnering with Jewish organizations, governmental authorities, and law enforcement agencies, CSS safeguards the community by training volunteers in professional security techniques, providing physical security, and raising public awareness about safety issues. As a 501(c)3 organization founded in 2007, CSS has a trained membership of over 5,000 volunteers, representing the rich diversity of the American Jewish community. Visit www.thecss.org.