Westport Officials Monitoring Rise In Antisemitism Across Nation

WESTPORT, CT — Since the deadly terroist attack in Israel on Oct. 7, hate incidents are on the rise across the United States, and Westport First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker said Monday that local authorities are monitoring such situations.

According to Tooker, a recent report by the Anti-Defamation League says that antisemitic incidents have increased by 388 percent since the attack.

"This data is shocking and horrifying," Tooker said in a statement. "Leaders like me all around the country, in large cities and in small towns, are monitoring these trends and communicating with organizations like the ADL and our local clergy to publicly stand against these incidents in our communities.

"I want the residents and business owners of Westport to know that there is no place for hate - no place for antisemitic behavior - in Westport. Our community strongly rejects hate in all forms. The safety and well-being of each member of our community are my top priority and that of Police Chief Foti Koskinas. If you hear something or see something, please report it."

Tooker goes on to say that local authorities and officials are here for residents and businesses, and that they want people to feel safe, and that any concerns they may have are heard.

"We want you to know that you are a valued member of our community, that you belong here," Tooker said. "It is up to all of us to stand together and speak up - clearly and unequivocally - against hate, and specifically antisemitism, and any language or actions that feed or normalize it. Again, when one of us is harmed, we are all harmed."