ADL Outraged At Display Of Swastika Flags On California Free

http://www.adl.org/PresRele/ASUS_12/4898_12.htm

Los Angeles, CA, September 22, 2006 .. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today expressed outrage at the flying of swastika flags on various portions of at least four Southland freeways. According to law enforcement reports, the California Highway Patrol responded during the morning commuting hours to numerous reports, and all flags were promptly removed

"The display of swastika flags as the Jewish High Holidays begin is a statement of extreme hatred against the Jewish community" said Amanda Susskind, Director of ADL's Pacific Southwest Region. "We commend law enforcement's swift action and the quick response of the California Highway Patrol."

While this attack may not signal a trend or increase in hateful anti-Semitic incidents, ADL's 2005 Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents noted an increase in anti-Semitic incidents directed towards Jewish institutions. Continuing a three-year upward trend, anti-Semitic incidents in California continued to rise in 2005. In California, the number of reported incidents was 180 for 2003, 237 for 2004, and increased to 247 in 2005.

"We continue to be alarmed that anti-Semitic incidents remain at a disturbing level," said Susskind. She noted that hate crime figures released by the California State Attorney General's office and the Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations consistently show Jews to be far and away the most frequently targeted religious group. ADL monitors and responds to hate crimes and hate incidents of all kinds.

ADL is particularly concerned about the security of Jewish institutions during these High Holidays in light of world incidents this past summer. ADL provides materials and expertise on community security issues including, "Protecting Your Jewish Institution: Security Strategies for Today's Dangerous World."

"We are committed to fighting hate in all forms and will continue to work with law enforcement and the community through education, legislation and community outreach," Susskind said.


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