JACKSON – Anti-Semitic graffiti was discovered at the site of the future Chai Lifeline Center in the township.
Township Police Chief Matthew D. Kunz told The Jackson Times, “There was some crude spray-painting in a wooded construction area on the bark of a felled tree, which could possibly have been interpreted to be of a bias nature. It is my understanding that tree has been removed.”
“To my knowledge, there is no indication at the site regarding the nature, ownership or intended use of the area being cleared. The area is just some cleared trees,” the chief added.
The markings were first discovered during the early morning hours of June 20.
“I am saddened, disappointed, and, frankly, deeply angered by the discovery of horrible anti-Semitic graffiti at the site of a new addition to our community,” Mayor Michael Reina said.
The mayor added, “for those who may not be familiar with Chai Lifeline of New Jersey, they provide programs and services to children and families struggling with life-threatening pediatric illness such as cancers that affect so many young children. They’ve complied completely with our municipal zoning, planning, and approval processes.”
“They’ve obeyed every law and township request and this is the welcome they get? Make no mistake, the Jackson Police Department and other agencies will bring the full resources of their departments to holding the perpetrator(s) of this despicable vandalism accountable,” Mayor Reina said.
“Those with the spray paint are not the only ones responsible for this hateful act. Those who sit comfortably behind a screen and spew ugly divisive comments on social media gin this hatred up, pit neighbor against neighbor, and stoke the flames of violence. Enough is enough,” he said. “Those of us with the true best interest of Jackson at heart will continue to move this town forward with unity, respect, and welcoming to all. I urge everyone in town to join us.”
Jackson GOP Club President Mordy Burnstein stated in an e-mail to the club’s membership “there must be zero tolerance for such despicable acts and we all unequivocally condemn this incident of unfettered bigotry and hatred.”
Burnstein added, “this unfortunate incident did not occur in a vacuum. In the hours preceding the vandalism, agitators within our own Jackson community spewed hateful rhetoric across social media regarding this specific site.”
“Hateful rhetoric on online platforms has real-life ramifications, as we so tragically witnessed today. We must all do more to ensure that such bigotry is expunged to the fullest extent possible. I call upon our devoted law enforcement agencies to use all resources available to them to find and hold accountable those responsible for this loathsome action,” Burnstein said.
Burnstein added, “Jackson Township is a beautiful and wonderful town, whose diversity is its greatest strength. We cannot allow the words and actions of a few to divide us.”
Chai Lifeline New Jersey Director Rabbi Sruli Fried told The Jackson Times, “Our hearts were both horrified and deeply pained by the discovery of anti-Semitic graffiti at the construction site of the future home of Chai Lifeline New Jersey in Jackson. This reprehensible act is not an isolated incident but part of a disturbing rise in anti-Semitism across our state and across the country.”
Rabbi Fried noted that reports of anti-Semitic incidents in New Jersey has increased by 10 percent last year. “Moreover, nationwide, anti-Semitic incidents hit an all-time high in 2022.”
“This disappointing incident stands in stark contrast to the values of acceptance, kindness, and community we hold dear. Chai Lifeline is steadfast in in its mission of providing support to children and families battling serious illnesses, trauma, and loss,” he added.
A few weeks ago, Manchester Township resident Ron Carr was arrested for painting swastikas on 15 houses and burnt a township house to the ground.
In April, Dion Marsh, also of Manchester, attacked a Jewish man waiting at a stop sign in Lakewood, stole his car and ran over two other Jewish men and stabbed another.
The director said, “we recognize that this graffiti is indicative of a broader societal issue. The alarming increase in anti-Semitic incidents demands that we, as a community, take action. As a community, we have a moral imperative to take decisive action. Chai Lifeline implores a united stand against bigotry and hatred.”
“Chai Lifeline extends its heartfelt thanks to the local authorities for addressing this incident, Jackson Township Mayor Michael Reina, and to the countless community members who have shown support,” he added.
The director added, “this incident only strengthens our commitment to serve our community with compassion. We eagerly look forward to opening our doors and inviting the community to join us in a place where love, support, and acceptance are the cornerstones.”
