Copyright Joliet, IL Patch
The Skokie community was shaken by reports of a group of Jewish children between the ages of 12 to 14 who were attacked at a local park. SKOKIE, IL — A group of five Jewish children were shot at with gel pellets and threatened at a Skokie park during an antisemitic encounter, village officials announced. The incident took place on Oct. 7 at Shawnee Park at approximately 6 p.m. when the children, ages 12 to 14 years old, were playing basketball. According to Susan Haggard, who works for the Chicago Jewish Alliance and has spoken with the children's families, another large group of teens approached the first group. Haggard said the group called the Jewish children baby killers and said they were going to kill them. The group of Jewish children fled and their parents reported the incident to police. Chicago Jewish Alliance president Daniel Schwartz told Patch that the children and their families are continuing to recover from the frightening experience. "Skokie is not just another suburb, it's a symbol. Survivors of the Holocaust rebuilt here. Never again was our vow, and now Jewish children have been hunted in daylight in a Skokie Park. We are shaken, and we ask, How safe are Jewish children in this town," Haggard said. Following the incident, Skokie police responded to the scene and all parties were identified and interviewed. According to the village, the investigation has been completed and the case is closed. In accordance with Skokie's Procedure for Early Identification and Intervention in Initial Incidents of Hate, the incident was shared with the Human Relations Commission. The commission reviews and discusses incidents of hate and bias and provides recommendations for municipalities to engage the community through public education, dialogue, and collaboration. Skokie officials condemned the antisemitic incident and reiterated its commitment to supporting all affected families. “There is no place for hate in Skokie,” said Mayor Ann Tennes. “Our community has long been built on respect, inclusion and care for one another. The Village remains committed to standing against antisemitism and all forms of bias, and to ensuring that Skokie continues to be a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
