Jan Schakowsky

10/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/30/2024 10:12

Schakowsky Statement on West Rogers Park Shooting

October 30, 2024

EVANSTON - Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement on Saturday's shooting in the West Rogers Park neighborhood:

The news that an Orthodox Jewish man was shot on the way to his synagogue for Shabbat morning prayers is deeply alarming and unacceptable.

"I'm relieved to hear that the victim has been released from the hospital and is back at home. I'm sending him and his family strength and support during this extremely difficult time.

"I support all efforts by law enforcement to get to the bottom of this senseless shooting. It is imperative that we know the motive of the shooter to determine whether hate crime charges are applicable.

"I have heard from several of my Jewish constituents who are scared to walk to school or synagogue, go to the grocery store, or wear anything that could convey their Jewish identity. This cannot become the norm. With antisemitism on the rise in America, we must recommit ourselves to rooting it out. All Americans deserve to feel safe in this country, and I will not rest until this ancient hatred is cast aside once and for all."

###