PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Jewish leaders say anti-Semitism is on the rise across the country.
Last month there were two attacks on four Orthodox Jews in Squirrel Hill. Both attacks were in the evening.
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Shawn Brokos, director of community security for the Greater Pittsburgh Jewish Federation, said one was a verbal assault and the other was beating.
The verbal attack was on June 4th when three people were yelled at near Beechwood Boulevard and Denniston Avenue. A man allegedly yelled at them for anti-Semitic comments.
“It was very hideous in what was said, very derogatory,” said Brokos.
Then on June 13, a man was attacked while leaving a service near Murray Avenue and Bartlett Streets. The victim came to the hospital and had his hip replaced.
At this point in time, the association cannot specifically attribute this attack to anti-Semitism. The Pittsburg police are investigating.
“Whether it’s an attack on the Jewish community or the Pittsburgh church, it’s an attack on one of us in the church. This is an attack against all of us, ”said Brokos.
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“We cannot tolerate that. That is simply unacceptable, ”said State Representative Dan Frankel.
Rep. Frankel represents the neighborhood and is working on a legislative package to combat hate crimes.
“Legislation alone doesn’t do it, but I think it’s a start,” said Rep. Frankel.
He hopes to be able to introduce the bills after the work on the state budget is completed.
“We hope that we can get the Republicans, who control the agenda in the House and Senate, to help us implement this law,” said MP Frankel.
As the local Jewish community grapples with hateful acts, they say their beliefs will not be wavered.
“These types of verbal or physical abuse will not stop them from worshiping or going to church services and going about their daily lives,” Brokos said.
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Leaders ask the community to protect one another. They want to remind you that when you see something, say something.
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