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Washington, D.C. | www.adc.org | May 31, 2023 – The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is alarmed by the increased threats of physical violence, hostility, and intimidation towards Arab, Palestinian, and Muslim communities from extremist Zionist individuals and organizations. These dangerous groups and individuals have engaged in an increased pattern of anti-Palestinian, anti-Arab rhetoric and actions, including threats of physical violence, doxxing, stalking and surveillance of our community members. Many of these perpetrators have also engaged in defamatory and slanderous activity against activists, leading to an increase of violent threats towards the victims. ADC is in communication with law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, about the threats coming against community members. Investigations are currently on-going. It is important to note that these tactics of hate and intimidation come from individuals with the same ideology that was behind the assassination of Alex Odeh and the bombing of the ADC California offices in 1985 – a stark reminder of how far extremist Zionists will go to silence our people. In the face of these real threats, ADC encourages heightened caution and vigilance from all community members. We must do everything that we can to ensure that our community spaces, events, and gatherings remain safe and free from the specter of violence. We urge community activists and organizations to take into account security measures when planning events, specifically public events and events held on college campuses. |
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If you are placed in physical danger because of your ethnicity, religion or national origin: Call the police (dial 911 in most communities), and/or click here to contact your local FBI office. It is the FBI’s job to investigate hate-motivated crimes and specific threats of violence. You can also report a hate crime to the FBI online using this form. If you see someone suspicious at your event, contact law enforcement immediately. |
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To our community members, we strongly recommend taking the following steps: Increased Security: Consider additional security measures, particularly at large gatherings and events. For assistance determining the appropriate level of security, please consult with local law enforcement agencies or private security companies. Connect: Reach out and develop relationships in your community, including local law enforcement. Having these relationships established before an incident occurs can help speed up the response when something happens, or when a threat is imminent. It is advisable to find out whether your venue has an open line of communication with law enforcement. If there is no line of communication, it is advised that one be established. A request for law enforcement presence should be made with law enforcement prior to large gatherings. Vigilance and Awareness: Pay close attention to your surroundings. If you observe any suspicious behavior or if anything makes you uncomfortable, immediately report it to the relevant authorities. Preparedness: Plan ahead for emergency situations. Ensure that you and your community members are familiar with evacuation plans and safety protocols in your respective community spaces. Provide employees and members of the congregation with training resources and exercise your plan often. The best laid plan must be exercised in order to be effective. |
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In this rising climate of anti-Arab activity it is important to remember that our greatest strength comes from not giving into fear, but that courage must go hand in hand with preparedness and vigilance. Given the real threats posed, it is critical that we remain alert to ensure the safety and security of our community. If you feel you have been a victim of a hate crime, or if any individual or place of worship needs any assistance with any of the above do not hesitate to contact ADC’s Legal Department at 202-244-2990 or by email at [email protected]. |