Via the Philadelphia Jewish Labor Committee:March 1, 2017:Today, the Philadelphia Jewish Labor Committee released the following statement in response to both the desecration of Mt. Carmel Cemetery and the outpouring of support for the Jewish community from the labor movement:“We are saddened and sickened by the recent desecration of Mt. Carmel Cemetery and anonymous bomb threats against Jewish institutions. It is clear that the current political climate has led to a rise in anti-Semitism and other forms of bigotry. This is unacceptable and must be confronted at every possible moment. The Philadelphia Jewish Labor Committee stands with all who believe in tolerance, compassion, and an inclusive society. Together, we can stand up to those who would divide us along race, religion, or ethnicity.Although it is easy to fall into despair, we are deeply heartened by the outpouring of support for the Jewish community in the wake of these attacks. We would like to specifically highlight the support offered by the Philadelphia-area labor movement. The Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council has volunteered to repair the damage done to headstones free of charge. IBEW Local 98 has also offered to help repair the cemetery and install a security system to prevent future attacks. These actions represent the best of the labor movement and show true solidarity with the Jewish people.”
Philadelphia Jewish Labor Committee Statement on the Desecration of Mt. Carmel Cemetery & Union Support for the Jewish Community