Chicago's Antisemitism Fears Rise After Deadly DC Attack

Chicago Grapples with Antisemitism After Deadly DC Attack: Mayor's Response and Community Concerns On May 23, 2025, a shooting occurred in Washington, D.C., resulting in multiple deaths. The incident prompted a response from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, who expressed condolences to the Israeli Consul General to the Midwest. However, this action has been met with criticism from some Jewish leaders in Chicago who feel more substantial action is needed to address the rise in antisemitic incidents within the city. "What we need to see right now is not just words, we need to see action." stated one Jewish leader, expressing frustration over the lack of tangible measures to combat antisemitism. The video shows increased police presence outside the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation building in Chicago, a visible response to the heightened security concerns. The American Defamation League reported over 400 antisemitic incidents in Cook County last year. This includes a shooting incident in Rogers Park where a Jewish man was injured, highlighting the ongoing threat. The Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations released a statement condemning the D.C. attack, while urging attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, emphasizing that peaceful protest and political engagement are the only appropriate tools to advocate for policy change. The situation underscores the complex interplay between local and national events, and the need for comprehensive strategies to address hate crimes and antisemitism.