List of Hanukkah Celebrations Canceled and Toned Down Across US This Year

With reported instances of antisemitism on the rise in the U.S. in the wake of renewed violence in the Middle East, several Hannukah celebrations have either been canceled or tempered.

According to watchdog StopAntisemitism, since Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants staged a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, it has experienced a 1,500 percent increase in reported incidents. In the first month following the attack, another organization, the Anti-Defamation League, said reports of antisemitism had risen 316 percent year-on-year.

When questioned about its response to these cancelations, the White House faced a backlash for also noting a rise in Islamophobia that has occurred at the same time. Its own Hannukah party is set to take place on Monday, The Washington Post reported.

Disney World, in Florida, and Disneyland, in California, meanwhile have maintained their plans to commemorate the festival—which begins on Thursday night.

Hannukah is not a strictly religious festival, but has become a major part of Jewish culture. It is the only Jewish festival that marks a military victory: when the Maccabees successfully recovered Jerusalem from the then Seleucid emperor Antiochus in the second century BC.

After the Second Temple was sacked by the Seleucids, the story goes, the Maccabees only had enough lamp oil for one night, but it lasted for eight days—which are represented by the eight candles on a hanukkiah lit over the course of eight days.

But while many Jews see Hanukkah as representing light and hope, some have viewed its usual mirth as inappropriate in the context of the war between Israel and Hamas.

A hanukkiah lighting had been scheduled to take place at the 2nd Sundays Art and Music Festival in Williamsburg, Virginia, on December 10, but it has since been canceled. Shirley Vermillion, the festival's founder, told the Daily Press that the event "seemed very inappropriate" given the conflict.

"The concern is of folks feeling like we are siding with a group over the other[...]not a direction we ever decide to head," she said.

The United Jewish Community of the Virginia Peninsula issued a statement criticizing the decision, and claimed festival organizers had offered to reinstate the event if it were held under a banner calling for a ceasefire.

Virginia's Gov. Glenn Youngkin urged the organizers to reconsider the decision, writing on Monday: "Singling out the Jewish community by canceling this Hanukkah celebration is absurd."

According to the Religious News Service, an annual bash in Washington D.C. called Latkes and Vodka was also canceled this year by its host, Steve Rabinowitz, a media consultant and former press aide in the Bill Clinton White House.

In an email on Tuesday, he reportedly said: "I just don't feel right hosting a party this year, given October 7 and in the middle of an actual war."

The Zony Mash Beer Project, a brewery and events space in New Orleans, Louisiana, which was due to hold a Hanukkah celebration on the first night of the festival, abruptly announced it was canceling the event on Wednesday.

In a statement, it attributed the decision to "external tensions,l" without specifying what those were.

"Our intent has always been to host a lighthearted and conflict-free celebration, providing a space for diverse communities to come together and enjoy the spirit of Hanukkah," the beer project wrote. "Unfortunately, challenges beyond our control have compromised our ability to ensure a joyful and safe environment."

Adam Mayer, a Jewish activist who runs a pop-up called Latke Daddy, who has publicly criticized Israel's intervention in Gaza, said in his own statement that he had been disinvited "respectfully" after other members of the Jewish community expressed unhappiness with his position.

A Jewish-owned house in Houston, Texas which has for the past few years with a blue and white light display, encouraging others to visit it, said it would be toning down the display this year over the war between Israel and Hamas.

In a statement on November 26, the owners said: "In light of current events, the Hannukah House is still aglow, with only white lights in the hope of peace."

Rabbi Brad Hirschfield, an author and president of the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership, will still be celebrating Hanukkah at home, but will not be hosting an open house this year as he traditionally does.

"I don't entirely know how you can celebrate a festival of victory fully and completely when we are a people at war," he told the Religious News Service. "That's a challenge."

Young People See Hamas as Part of the Movement for Social Justice - StopAntisemitism Director

Liora Rez, Executive Director of StopAntisemitism, a watchdog organization that publicly exposes antisemitic behavior and creates consequences for those who espouse bigotry toward the Jewish people, said that the most dangerous trend in today’s climate of antisemitism is the false equivalence between Hamas terrorism and the struggle for social justice.

“It is surreal to see younger generations believe that they are on the side of the oppressed as they celebrate antisemitic savagery,” she stated.

Rez was interviewed by Steve Linde, editor-in-chief of the Jerusalem Report, at the Jerusalem Post Second Front Conference.

In response to Linde’s query as to how the landscape of antisemitism has changed since October 7, Rez said, “All the masks have come off."

"Antisemites around the world are using the massacre to air their grievances against the Jewish state as a fig leaf for their hate, revealing their bigotry. If this were about Israel, a synagogue would not be vandalized. Jewish students would not be targeted, and hostage posters of kidnapped children would not be ripped down.”

The ripping down of the posters displaying the names and faces of those kidnapped by Hamas, says Raz, is significant because it indicates a deep-seated hatred. “Taking down posters indicates a callous disregard for the suffering of Jewish hostages and their families. It is an affront to human dignity that cannot help but be antisemitic. Imagine how much hate it takes to rip down a poster of a missing baby.”

Rez stated that antisemitism on social media plays a role in antisemitic activity. “They go hand in hand. Social media firms have a responsibility to crack down on this activity – and the groundswell of antisemitic and pro-terror context online continues to foment violence against Jews on a global scale.”

When people spot antisemitism, she said, they should report it. “Do not turn a blind eye to what is happening. If you see something, we want to hear about it. Report it to stopantisemitism.org.”

La Mesa Police and District Attorney Announce Hate Crimes Forum Dec. 14 After Antisemitic Flyers Disseminated

District Attorney Summer Stephan and the La Mesa Police Dept. invite community members to a hate crimes forum with Q&A session on Dec.14 at 5:30 p.m. at the La Mesa Police Dept., 8085  University Ave., La Mesa.

The forum comes on the heels of antisemitic flyers repeatedly disseminated in La Mesa and the nearby San Diego communities of Del Cerro,  San Carlos and Allied Gardens in recent months, among other neighborhoods targeted. Some flyers blamed Jews for 9-11 attacks, among other false claims.

“Their goal is creating fear and anxiety in our communities,”  Fabienne Perlov, executive director of the Anti-Defamation League’s San Diego chapter told the San Diego Union-Tribune.

The flyers were distributed by the Goyim Defense League, a white supremacist group, according to Liora Rez, executive director of the nonprofit Stop Antisemitism.  The flyers first appeared locally around June. It has continued since Hamas slaughtered  Israelis at a kibbutz and took hundreds hostage, triggering Israeli attacks on Gaza and a rise in anti-Semitism worldwide.

In the city of San Diego, Councilman Raul Campillo plans to introduce an ordinance that would create a new crime, hate littering, that would be less serious than violent hate crimes but enable communities to ban distribution of flyers that could incite violence against any specific group, such as Jews, Muslims, Asians, or the LGBTQ community, for example.

Carrie Shah, policy staffer for Councilman Campillo, says the draft ordinance is currently being vetted by the City Attorney to assure that it can withstand any constitutional challenge on First Amendment/free speech grounds.  Campillo also wants to address the issue more broadly to assure that the city creates a safe space for victims to go and get help or resources, and to address reasons behind the surge in hate flyers.

“This is his number one policy priority,” she says of Councilman Campillo, adding that the ordinance could come before the San Diego City Council within a week or two after being heard first in committee in January or February. If approved, a person found guilty of distributing hate flyers aimed at inciting violence could spend up to a year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

La Mesa Councilman Jack Shu told ECM in a phone interview today, “I haven’t heard of this type of ordinance before, but it’s something I’d be interested in looking into. An ordinance regarding hate literature may be helpful...I hope we can also work on preventative measures with regard to hate.”

He voiced concern over hate targeting both recent immigrants and those of foreign ancestry who have been in the U.S. for generations, such as Chinese-Americans targeted during the  COVID-19 pandemic which some blamed on China, where it originated.

He likens preventative actions, such as community forums and educational efforts, as addressing hate from a public health perspective instead of waiting for a crime to occur.

“We can reduce hate if we have a conscious effort to do so,” he said, urging all concerned to attend the hate crimes forum on Dec. 14.”When you team up,  you win.”

Shots Fired Outside Upstate New York Synagogue on First Night of Hanukkah

Shots were fired outside a synagogue in Albany, New York, on the first night of Hanukkah, as dozens of children were on the grounds, Governor Kathy Hochul said.

Hochul took to X, formerly Twitter, to announce the Thursday gunfire that rattled Temple Israel in the state capital, saying that a 28-year-old man was in custody and no one was injured. She added during a press conference that the suspect "fired off a round from his shotgun while making threatening statements," and that at least two dozen preschoolers were on the premises in an early childhood center. The children have since been safely released to their parents.

Antisemitism has been on the rise since Israel advanced into Gaza following Hamas' surprise attack on the country. On October 7, Hamas led the deadliest Palestinian militant attack on Israel in history. Israel subsequently launched its heaviest-ever airstrikes on Gaza. Israeli officials have said that 1,200 people in Israel were killed in Hamas' attack, according to the Associated Press, while over 17,100 Palestinians have been killed, officials from the health ministry in Gaza said.

In the X thread, Hochul said, "Federal, state, & local law enforcement are investigating & I've spoken to the Rabbi, assuring her that the State will do everything in our power to restore the sense of security her community needs."

Hochul added that she is directing New York's State Police and National Guard "to be on high alert & increase existing patrols of at-risk sites."

Newsweek reached out to New York State Police via email and Hochul's office via online form for comment Thursday evening.

The governor spoke out against antisemitic attacks, which have surged across the world amid the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

"Undermining public safety at a synagogue on the first night of Hanukkah is deplorable. New Yorkers stand united against antisemitism, hate, & violence in all forms," Hochul wrote on X.

She also said, at Thursday's press conference, that "The safety of Jewish New Yorkers is non-negotiable. Every act, whether it's verbal or physical—any act of antisemitism is unacceptable."

The nonprofit StopAntisemitism wrote in an email to Newsweek in response to the shooting in Albany, "It's sadly all too common for hatred that's generated online to seep out into reality. It must be the last of its kind; we refuse to tolerate such bigotry and we call for swift justice against the perpetrator. This is a stark reminder of antisemitism's destructive power, which will persist if we don't face it head-on."

Congress has focused its antisemitism efforts on college campuses. On Tuesday, presidents of Harvard, UPenn and MIT testified before a congressional education committee over the rise in antisemitic protests and violence at colleges amid the conflict in the Middle East.

The university leaders received backlash for not taking a stronger stance against condemning Jewish hate speech on their campuses.

During the hearing, New York Republican Representative Elise Stefanik asked Harvard President Claudine Gay the hypothetical question: "Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Harvard's rules on bullying and harassment?"

Gay responded, "The rules around bullying and harassment are quite specific and if the context in which that language is used amounts to bullying and harassment, then we take, we take action against it."

White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said of Gay's testimonies on his X account, "It's unbelievable that this needs to be said: calls for genocide are monstrous and antithetical to everything we represent as a country."

Gay on Wednesday addressed the "confusion" surrounding her testimony, saying in a statement posted on Harvard's X account: "Calls for violence or genocide against the Jewish community, or any religious or ethnic group are vile, they have no place at Harvard, and those who threaten our Jewish students will be held to account."

This Hanukkah, Jews are Buying Jewish

The October 7 terrorist attacks in Israel have unleashed a wave of antisemitism that has changed many facets of everyday life for Jewish communities around the world—even the way many shop for Hanukkah gifts.

As the December holiday season approaches amid this precarious new context, many Jews have sought to purchase gifts specifically from Jewish-owned stores and brands in an effort to show solidarity with the Jewish people.

Several nonprofit organizations have launched new platforms and initiatives to help connect Jewish consumers with Jewish businesses this holiday season.

StopDontShop.org, a website created by StopAntisemitism, ranks businesses on several measures of antisemitism, flagging offending statements and actions for users. For those companies that rank poorly, StopDontShop offers alternative brands that consumers can patronize instead.

This trend has also been embraced by the influencer community. Blogger Liz Teich, who goes by “The New York Stylist” on social media, compiled a list of Israeli and Jewish-owned brands to support. Investor and social media creator Kira Mackenzie Jackson made a TikTok and Instagram series on the subject. Best Products aggregated a list of shoppable products from Jewish-owned companies.

Several leading Jewish-owned businesses are based in Los Angeles.

Tieks, for example, is a Los Angeles-based luxury shoe brand that designs some of the most sought-after ballet flats in the industry. Tieks’ special edition flats often sell out within hours of hitting the market, and many rare colorways and designs sell for three to four times their value on resale sites. A Facebook group known as “Tieks Anonymous,” a hub where users can keep up on new releases and product drops, boasts more than 46,000 members.

Over the last two months since the devastating October 7th terrorist attacks, Tieks has mobilized its following to support Israeli terror victims and the fight against antisemitism, raising a combined $397,198.

“As a proud Jewish-owned business, it’s imperative to use our company as a vehicle to provide support to the Jewish community during this time of great need,” said Kfir Gavrieli, founder and CEO of Tieks. “We’ve tapped into the compassion and creativity of our team and fans to support the victims of terror and hate both in Israel and in the diaspora.”

In addition to Tieks, here are some other local, Jewish-owned brands to patronize for holiday shopping this season.

Aharon Coffee

This Beverly Hills coffee mainstay draws influence from its namesake’s Israeli-Moroccan roots. Aharon’s exotic blends fuel everyone from the buzzing professionals at nearby agencies to social media creators and coffee connoisseurs from all over the city. Aharon is currently subsidizing their product so customers may purchase coffee at a discounted price to be donated to those affected by the October 7th attacks.

Dream Pops

The L.A. holiday season means Angelenos are among the rare few who will be warm enough to enjoy frozen treats as part of Hanukkah’s dessert offerings. Dream Pops’ ice cream confections are vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free. With each plant-based serving clocking in at roughly 100 calories, one can balance out other caloric indulgences like brisket and latkes this Hanukkah.

EF Collection

For those feeling generous, look to EF Collection for jewelry. These investment pieces are crafted to stand the test of time and be passed down l’dor v’dor. Designed by Emily Faith Strauss, these modern heirlooms use durable materials like 14-karat gold, precious and semi-precious stones, and enamel so they can last for many generations to come.

SET Active

For friends who are looking to prioritize their health as part of their New Year’s resolutions, help them stay motivated by gifting them premium workout gear. SET Active offers high-quality basics that blend form and function. SET Active’s mid-range price point is great for those on a gift list, like roommates or siblings, who deserve something a little nicer without breaking the bank.

Tieks

Tieks rounds out the list of Jewish-owned companies to consider when gift-giving this Hanukkah season. Tieks’ smartly crafted split sole ballet flats are foldable—this means one can easily store them in their bag for commutes or when they need relief from a long night of heels. Constructed with high-end Italian leather, these luxurious shoes are stylish, yet durable.

Ramapo College Launches Investigation Into Professor's Posts on Israel-Hamas Conflict

Ramapo College said it is investigating a professor's posts on Facebook regarding the Israel-Hamas war that caused controversy after an outside group posted them on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, accusing her of antisemitism.

Renata Gangemi, a faculty member in the digital filmmaking department, allegedly posted a cartoon on her public Facebook page, along with other posts denouncing Israel's bombardment of Gaza. Gangemi did not respond to requests for comment.

"Imagine being a Jewish student of Gangemi's?" the group, Stopantisemitism.org, tweeted, along with screenshots of a cartoon featuring a baby under a cleaver held by a hand wearing the Israeli and U.S flags on its sleeve.

Ramapo's affirmative action and equal employment opportunity office is handling the investigation in accordance with university procedure, a spokesperson for the college said in a statement Tuesday.

The investigation is looking into possible discrimination or harassment, based on New Jersey's state policy prohibiting discrimination in the workplace.

The university did not immediately respond to a question about how the policy might be enforced in this situation, but pointed out that a section of the state's anti-discrimination and harassment policy "also applies to posts on any social media site and/or electronic device, personal or business, that adversely affects the work environment defined by the state policy."

"The state policy is deployed when there are reports of suspected forms of discrimination or harassment based upon one or more of the protected categories listed" in the policy, the college said.

Race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, religion and ancestry are among several protected categories mentioned in the state's policy. Investigations are confidential, and employers are required to pursue corrective or remedial actions whenever an investigation concludes there was a violation, according to language in the zero tolerance policy.

Ramapo College is publicly funded and receives an appropriation in the state budget. It enrolled about 4,900 undergraduates in 2022, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Jewish Students Told to 'Go Back to Poland, Germany' at Queens College

Pro-Israel demonstrators were subjected to antisemitic abuse during a rally at Queens College on Monday.

During the pro-Israel rally, Jewish demonstrators were confronted by anti-Israel counter-protestors, one of whom shouted that Jews should "go back to Poland, go back to Germany." He also cursed at the Jewish students.

A video of the incident was posted to X (formerly Twitter) by the StopAntisemitism organization.

The counter-protestors also grabbed Israeli flags from demonstrators and stomped on them.

Assemblyman Sam Berger, who represents the area of Flushing where the campus demonstration was held, said that he had received multiple complaints from Jewish students and parents of continued antisemitic harassment at Queens College, the New York Post reported.

“Tensions have been high on campus for several weeks. The Muslim Student Association is making antisemitic posts. They’re using the Queens College name to spread hate and there are no repercussions,” Berger said.

“I have grandparents who are Holocaust survivors. To hear someone say, ‘Go back to Poland, go back to Germany’ is terrifying,” he said. “We’re from disagreement to hate speech. That has to stop. I hope we can de-escalate the tension. I don’t want to see anyone get hurt.”

Antisemites Exposed and X-cised Through Social Media

Greg Saunders* hung his head in shame when he was marched out of his dream job, carrying just a box of his work belongings, because he had been outed for being openly antisemitic on social media.

He didn’t think his Jewish bosses would find out what he was saying on social media, and that he was pulling down posters of Israeli hostages on weekends.

Unfortunately for Saunders, social media may be a breeding ground for hate and misinformation, but it’s also a powerful tool that can be used to expose those who are engaging in harmful, discriminatory behaviour.

Many organisations, specifically those with a large social media following, have used online platforms to publicise and condemn antisemitic incidents in the hope that responsible individuals will face tangible consequences. This is how Saunders was outed for his outrageously antisemitic sentiments.

One such organisation is the watchdog group StopAntisemitism.org, which has Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) pages with more than 200 000 followers and more than 1 500 posts.

“StopAntisemitism was started in response to a growing and pervasive amount of antisemitic incidents occurring across the United States in 2018,” said Executive Director Liora Rez. “Our mission has always been to expose and create tangible consequences in response to this vile hatred. As incidents have increased in frequency and intensity, so has support for our mission.”

Its pages on Instagram and X are filled with videos of antisemitic incidents sent in by witnesses around the country, as well as antisemitic social media posts. Videos are shared to identify the perpetrators and ultimately report the incident to the individual’s workplace or university. The captions of the videos often read, “Recognise them? DM us!” and are updated when the person is identified.

According to Rez, they receive several hundred reports per day. And since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war on 7 October, their intake of incidents has grown 1 500%. “We don’t reveal specific details about our internal processes, but we thoroughly vet each report that comes in before posting about it,” she said.

The organisation has had some backlash, but according to Rez, “Any organisation that exposes hatred like we do will most certainly get it in return.” Their core belief is that “people should be made aware who among them harbours antisemitic hatred in their hearts. We expose and alert individuals to these incidents and their perpetrators to protect and preserve one of the most marginalised cultures on the globe. No-one deserves to live in a world where they must look over their shoulder every few minutes just because of their identity.”

Many of the individuals have already faced consequences from their employers. A United Airlines pilot was removed from service for investigation after calling Hamas “a brave people” in a social media post. A New York County public defender resigned from her position after a video was shared of her taking down hostage posters.

One student at Harvard Divinity School was relieved of proctor duties after participating in an antisemitic mob on campus. An update on one of StopAntisemitism’s posts about a student at Las Positas College in California, who ran towards a Jewish student yelling, “You guys are f*cking Nazis, you’re f*cking disgusting, f*cking Nazis … yahoodi sharmuta! [Jewish whore]” said that she’s “no longer a student at Las Positas College”.

“We’re grateful that companies like Apple and many medical providers have been responsive to antisemitic incidents and have acted accordingly,” said Rez.

Apple has fired two employees, one of whom called Jewish people “murderers and thieves”, and the other who made multiple comparisons between Zionism and Nazism.

A medical director at ExpertMRI was fired over a tweet that read, “Zionists are genocidal, demonic, greedy, pedophilic retards. Change my mind.” Psychology Today removed the profile of a sex therapist at Chicago Mindful Psychotherapy after a video was shared of her ripping down hostage posters and claiming that the hostages were kidnapped by Israel.

The organisation has also highlighted high-profile individuals who it believes have used their platforms to spread antisemitism, such as United States House Representative Rashida Tlaib, who was recently censured for defending the slogan “From the river to the sea”.

It has also called out the Hadid sisters, most recently calling for Gigi Hadid to be dropped by IMG Models for sharing a video claiming that Israel harvests organs from dead Palestinians.

Last week, it reported on its X feed that Susan Sarandon was dropped by her talent agency UTA for her antisemitic remarks at a rally that “there are a lot of people that are afraid, afraid to be Jewish at this time, and are getting a taste of what it feels like to be a Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence”.

“Ultimately, we would love to live in a world where our organisation doesn’t have to exist,” said Rez “In the more immediate future, our goal is to continue exposing antisemitic perpetrators and educating [members of] the general public about what antisemitism looks like and what they should do if they witness it.

“Unfortunately, antisemitism has been on the rise over the past few years. It’s horrific, but wherever it rears its ugly head, we’ll be there to expose and hopefully squash it,” she said.

Rez said South Africans could assist by staying vigilant and supporting local Jewish organisations. “If you see something, say something – report to your local law enforcement or other authority.”

*Not his real name.

Sephora Is Getting Canceled Over Pro-Palestinian Brands

Social media users are angry with the cosmetics store Sephora over its sale of a brand whose owners have criticized Israel amid the ongoing war with Hamas militants.

On Sunday, @StopAntisemites shared a post on X, formerly Twitter, that detailed the owners of the makeup brand SimiHaze calling the shooting of three Palestinian students in the U.S. a "Zionist hate crime," prompting backlash against Sephora, which sells the makeup brand.

"Sickening - U.S. based Palestinian twins Simi and Haze Khadra (known for their beauty brand 'SimiHaze' sold at @Sephora) have the gall to insinuate the horrific attack on 3 Palestinians was a "Zionist" hate crime," the post said. "When will Sephora finally drop this Jew hating duo?!"

Since Hamas militants led a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, fighting has continued between the two over the past several weeks, and many protests have occurred in the U.S., with supporters across both sides of the war criticizing each other. On Saturday, three Palestinian college students in Vermont were shot by a suspect identified as 48-year-old Jason J. Eaton, who pleaded not guilty. Investigators are treating the shooting as a suspected hate-motivated crime.

A Sephora store on Fifth Avenue remains boarded up following the phase 2 coronavirus reopening in Manhattan on June 23, 2020, in New York City. In November 2023, many social media users called for a boycott against Sephora over its sale of a brand whose owners criticized Israel amid the ongoing war with Hamas militants.

The post shared by @StopAntisemites showcased the owners of the SimiHaze brand reacting to the crime in Vermont, prompting widespread backlash and calls to boycott Sephora.

"Just bought a whole bunch of @LauraGeller this Cyber Monday, none of it at @Sephora It's not ok to support antisemites. You need to answer @StopAntisemites questions on #SimiHaze," X user @LouiseMensch wrote.

X user @Virtualhuman10 wrote: "Hey @Sephora #simihaze founders are posting hateful antisemitic messages yet you still carry their brand. Do the right thing. This kind of hate goes beyond differences of opinion. This is antisemitic."

Similarly, X user @ManhattanMingle wrote, "@Sephora is currently selling a brand "SimiHaze" which is owned by a blatant Anti-Semitic duo. Let's come together and urge them to drop this brand: CustomerService@beauty.sephora.com. Never Again is NOW."

X user @GinnyMcDonald8 called for others to "boycott @Sephora until the brand, SimiHaze is no longer sold in stores!"

On the other hand, X user @TroonPlanet wrote, "Shooter Jason Eaton is not Jewish, and not a Zionist," alluding to the crime in Vermont.

Last month, another makeup brand sold at Sephora faced criticism after its owner, Huda Kattan, said she didn't want to accept "blood money" from Israeli customers.

Newsweek reached out to Sephora via email for comment.

Protest Outside Israel Lobbyist’s Brentwood Home Being Investigated as Possible Hate Crime

The Thanksgiving Day demonstration that took place in front of the Brentwood home of Michael Tuchin, President of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, is being investigated as a possible hate crime.

Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore confirmed the hate crime investigation on Friday afternoon. 

“Video evidence and other information is being collected to identify those responsible for the vandalism and assault on a neighbor,” Moore said on X, formerly Twitter. 

Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein-Soto also took to social media to express her concern over the incident. 

“The behavior on virulent display in Brentwood on Thanksgiving Day and continuing in our city today is unacceptable,” Feldstein-Soto said on X, formerly Twitter. “Physically harming or criminally threatening another person, trespass[ing] and vandalism are not protected speech and should be prosecuted.” 

L.A. Mayor Karen Bass also wrote on social media that she had spoken with Michael Tuchin and Chief Moore on Friday but later removed Tuchin’s name from the post, citing “the safety of those involved” in the investigation, the Los Angeles Times reported. 

Video of the demonstration, which took place on Thursday afternoon in front of Tuchin’s home in the 11900 block of Foxboro Drive, quickly circulated across social media. 

Footage posted by StopAntisemitism shows a group of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators in front of Tuchin’s house, holding smoke bombs and splattering fake blood on his driveway. 

The video, which has garnered nearly two million views on X – formerly Twitter – in two days, was taken by a woman pleading with her father to avoid any physical confrontation with the protestors. 

That man, who did not want to be identified, told KTLA 5’s Rachel Menitoff that he was simply looking out for his neighbor. 

“As soon as I looked, I realized they were trashing my neighbor’s property and I tried to protect the property,” he said. “Unfortunately, they didn’t back up, so it got a little bit heated.” 

No arrests were made as of Saturday morning.

Pro-Palestinian Demonstrators Target Home of Israel Lobbyist With Smoke Bombs, Red Paint

Smoke bombs were apparently set off outside the home of the President of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) on Thursday. 

Video circulating on social media shows a group of around a dozen protestors holding what appear to be smoke bombs and blaring sirens in the street outside of Michael Tuchin’s Brentwood home on Thanksgiving day. 

The video, posted by the account StopAntisemitism, was taken by a woman shouting towards her father, who was trying to break up the demonstration, to avoid physical confrontation. 

At the end of the video, he was seen carrying an American flag towards the group. 

Another video posted by StopAntisemitism shows what appears to be fake blood and fake dead babies in Tuchin’s driveway. 

The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that officers were dispatched to the 11900 block of Foxboro Drive around 10:45 a.m. Thursday after protestors “appeared…and caused a disturbance.”

“As soon as I look, I realize they were trashing my neighbor’s property and I tried to protect the property, letting them know it’s a private property — back up,” the man, who did not wish to be identified, said. “Unfortunately, they didn’t back up, so it got a little bit heated.”

Video of the incident shows the neighbor attempting to disperse the crowd but was instead hit by protestors in the back of his head. 

He said he refuses to cower to hatred, especially in his own neighborhood. 

“I think if we stay silent, it’s going to get worse and I won’t stay silent,” he said. “If I see someone using force, I will defend myself and defend my neighbor.”

Chief Moore confirmed early Friday afternoon that authorities are investigating the incident as a hate crime and that the department is collecting video evidence and other information to identify those responsible for “vandalism and assault on a neighbor.”

“It’s unfortunate that we’re reaching the end of the year, during the holiday season, where so many families are politically and religiously divided,” said Leslie Mayer, a neighbor. “Hopefully the splintering will come together in a healing way and not continue to drive people apart.”

Jacklin Tabesh, who lives close by, said she left Iran to escape religious persecution and is concerned to see what is happening in her own backyard. 

“We came here to have freedom, to live nicely, peacefully, but this is not right,” Tabesh said. “To see this, the whole thing, is very concerning for me. Why should this happen in America?”

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass took to X, formerly Twitter, to address the incident, calling it “disturbing” and saying that she has spoken with both Tuchin and LAPD Chief Michel Moore. 

“Hate and violence will not be tolerated in our city,” Bass said. “LAPD will continue to work with the city and business leaders to keep Angelenos safe.” 

Crime reports for vandalism, hate crime and assault with a deadly weapon were taken, LAPD said. No arrests were made so far as the investigation continues.

AIPAC President Under Siege From Protesters Hurling Smoke Bombs

Protesters rioted outside the Los Angeles home of AIPAC president Michael Tuchin on Thursday, throwing smoke bombs, vandalizing the driveway and painting walls red. They called Tuchin a baby killer and threw items resembling babies wrapped in white sheets to symbolize those killed in Israeli bombings in Gaza.

"AIPAC spends tens of millions of dollars to control members of congress who support genocide," they said. Tuchin's neighbors sparred with the protesters and the violence was only stopped when the police arrived.

Some 85 Jewish graves were desecrated in Belgium on Friday in the Jewish section of Marcinelle's cemetery. Since October 7, antisemitic attacks have spiked in the U.S., Canada and Europe raising alarm among Jewish communities and concern among security officials.

A British security official said the war in Gaza was likely to become the biggest recruiter for Islamist militants since the Iraq war in 2003, and that calls for attacks on Jewish and Western targets had risen in Europe.

Other security officials said the main danger for Europe is probably from attacks by "lone wolves," assailants who are radicalized, often online, but have no formal links to more established groups.

Anti-Israel Protesters Target AIPAC President’s Home With Smoke Bombs, Call Him ‘Baby Killer’

Anti-Israel demonstrators held a raucous protest outside the home of the president of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), lighting smoke bombs and calling him a “baby killer.”

Protesters gathered for the loud and hostile demonstration outside AIPAC President Michael Tuchin’s vacation home in Los Angeles on the US holiday of Thanksgiving.

AIPAC, a nonpartisan organization, is the foremost pro-Israel lobbying group in the US.

“F—k your holiday baby killer!” the group chanted, marking Thanksgiving by spilling red-paint-covered wads of cloth to symbolize dead babies and accuse Tuchin having blood on his hands.

Videos circulated on social media showed protesters lighting smoke bombs, filling the area outside Tuchin’s residence with a gray haze.

The rally was organized by People’s City Council — Los Angeles, a left-wing organization that describes itself as an “abolitionist, anti-capitalist & anti-imperialist collective amplifying the voice of the people through direct action.” On X/Twitter, the group described the protest as a “holiday wakeup call.”

“AIPAC spends tens of millions to control pro-genocide congress members. F—k your holiday baby killer! #FreePalestine,” the People’s City Council wrote.

Members of the so-called “Squad,” a group of far left members of the US House of Representatives, have frequently lobbed similar attacks at AIPAC. Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), for example, has previously called AIPAC a “right-wing Super PAC funded by millions of dollars in Dark Money spending” and accused the group of using money to buy support for Israel in the US Congress.

Thursday’s protest came amid a historic surge in antisemitic incidents across the US since the Hamas terror group’s massacre in southern Israel on Oct. 7. A recent report published by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) recorded 832 outrages targeting American Jews between Oct. 7 and Nov. 7 — an average of 28 incidents per day and a 316 percent increase on the same period in 2022.

Europe has also experienced surging antisemitism following last month’s attack and amid the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Protesters Set Off Smoke Bombs Outside AIPAC Head Michael Tuchin’s Home on Thanksgiving: ‘F–k Ur Holiday!’

Pro-Palestinian protesters set off smoke bombs outside a vacation home of American Israel Public Affairs Committee President Michael Tuchin on Thanksgiving Day — while holding a banner reading: “F–k ur holiday! Baby killer.”

Video posted online showed a group of about a dozen protesters hurling smoke bombs as an unidentified man approached the group outside the house in Los Angeles.

A girl could be heard begging her father to “stay away” and “not get physical” as the group chanted, “Hey, ho, the occupation has got to go” and “F— your holiday,” a Thanksgiving message also on the “baby killer” banner.

Other footage shows the group had dripped paint along Tuchin’s driveway and left bunches of cloth covered in fake blood to symbolize dead babies.

The People’s City Council-Los Angeles, which describes itself as an anticapitalist and anti-imperialist group, took credit for the protest, calling it a “holiday wake-up call.”

“AIPAC spends tens of millions to control pro-genocide Congress members,” it wrote on X. “F–k your holiday, baby killer.”

Watchdog group StopAntisemitism shared the videos on X, calling the rally “horrifying.

“What’s next? The burning of synagogues and schools like in 1939 Germany?” it asked.

The Los Angeles Police Department told The Post officers responded to the scene at around 10:45 a.m. and took crime reports for investigation into potential vandalism/hate crime and assault with a deadly weapon charges.

Both investigations are ongoing.

AIPAC, a nonpartisan, pro-Israel political action committee that lobbies for Israeli interests in Washington, has faced criticism since Israel’s military response to the Oct. 7 slaughter of more than 1,200 people by Hamas terrorists.

Progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez earlier this month called it a “racist and bigoted organization.”

“They are no friend to American democracy,” Ocasio-Cortez wrote on X. “They are one of the more racist and bigoted PACs in Congress as well, who disproportionately target members of color.

“They are an extremist organization that destabilizes US democracy.”

The group responded by saying AOC was spreading “more of the same tired lies and spin.

“@AOC and the Squad summed up: People who disagree with us are racist,” AIPAC posted on X, noting it “stands with pro-Israel Democrats and Republicans of all races, genders, and backgrounds who support the US-Israel alliance. And we oppose those who don’t, like you.”

The Post has reached out to local law enforcement for more information on the protest, as well as to AIPAC for comment.

Palestinian Protesters Targets Home of President of Jewish Organisation in Brentwood

Palestinian protesters targeted the home of the President of a Jewish organization in Brentwood, California during Thanksgiving. Palestine supporters while wearing masks gathered outside the premises and threw smoke grenades at his house, poured fake blood and placed fake baby body bags on his driveway and lawn.

The group Stop Antisemitism posted a video on the social media platform X of a group of black-clad individuals throwing smoke bombs into the yard of the Brentwood, California, home of Michael Tuchin, president of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.

The activists of the ‘Peoples City Council’, an activism group tweeted that they were giving the Jewish organization president a ‘holiday wake-up call.’

In the weeks since the Israel-Hamas war erupted on Oct. 7, people across the globe have taken to the streets en masse — some in support of Israel and some in support of Palestinians.

In Tel Aviv, Israel, friends and family of some 240 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza call for their return as they participate in a five-day “March for the Hostages” from Tel Aviv to the Prime Minister’s Office in Jerusalem.

In Manila, the capital of the Philippines, activists scuffle with police while marching toward the United States Embassy in solidarity with the Palestinians. In Washington, D.C., a river of people fills the National Mall in support of Israel — a sea of Israeli and U.S. flags.

Israel, the United States and Qatar have been negotiating for weeks over a hostage release that would be paired with a temporary cease-fire in Gaza and the entry of more humanitarian aid.

Protesters Set Off Smoke Bombs Outside AIPAC President’s Home, Brand Him ‘Baby Killer’

US pro-Palestinian demonstrators have held a loud protest outside a vacation home of AIPAC president Michael Tuchin in Los Angeles, setting off smoke bombs and branding him a “baby killer.”

They also spilled red paint outside the home, signifying blood, and chanted “Fuck your holiday” at the head of the pro-Israel lobby.

New Shopping Guide Grades Businesses on Support for Israel, Jewish People — and Hamas

A new online guide launched ahead of the start of the holiday shopping season aims to help shoppers avoid spending their money at businesses that support the Hamas terror group and espouse hatred toward Israel and the Jewish people.

The initiative, called “StopDontShop,” was announced earlier this week by StopAntisemitism, a nonprofit that tracks incidents of anti-Jewish hatred across the world.

“We’re hoping that consumers take into account which businesses they’re supporting this holiday season, and StopDontShop is the perfect guide to help them decide,” StopAntisemitism executive director Liora Rez told The Algemeiner. “People should be aware of which of their favorite brands stand in solidarity with the Jewish people, and those that support terrorism.”

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7, when Hamas terrorists invaded the Jewish state and massacred civilians across southern Israeli communities, StopAntisemitism said it has received several requests to expose businesses that support the Palestinian terror group and highlight those that stand in solidarity with Israel.

StopDontStop includes a database of nearly 100 businesses that StopAntisemitism has graded based on their support for terrorism, Israel, and the Jewish people.

A green check mark means businesses and service providers have demonstrated “unwavering support” for the Jewish people and Israel or have “taken a stand against terrorism.” A yellow symbol of caution signals clarity is needed on “rumors pertaining to their real or perceived position on the Israel-Hamas war.” And a red octagon with an “X” symbol at the center indicates they support Hamas or espouse hatred toward Israel and the Jewish people.

The interactive website, which encourages users to add a business by emailing any relevant links and screenshots, lists Amazon, Chanel, Walmart, and Sony Music Group as among those to receive a green check mark.

StopAntisemitism flagged cosmetics company Huda Beauty — whose founder, Huda Kattan, has allegedly made dishonest statements about the Israel-Hamas war — with a red stop sign. Biotech firm Alkon Corporation received one too. Its CEO, Lauren Scott, said “I am Hamas” on her LinkedIn page, in a post in which she accused Israel of “oppression” and “apartheid.” StopAntisemitism also urged Jews not to shop at Nuudii System, which sells women’s underclothing, because its CEO, Annette Azen, accused Israel of fabricating evidence that Hamas beheaded babies to “get support for genocide.”

Caution is urged when shopping at Starbucks, which is currently suing to stop unionized employees from using its logo in social media posts declaring solidarity with Hamas. Krispy Kreme also earned a “caution” grade. Last month, reports emerged that the Middle Eastern Student Association of the University of California, Los Angeles sent funds it raised through Krispy Kreme’s Digital Dozens program to Gaza.

“The mission of this campaign is to empower consumers with information,” Rez said in a statement while announcing the initiative.” As we approach the holiday shopping season, StopDontShop encourages everyone to think twice about the impact of their spending. By providing clear categories and detailed insights, our campaign aims to guide consumers across various industries, ensuring they make informed choices that align with their values.”

“StopDontShop” Makes You Think Twice About Where You Spend Your Money

Watchdog organization StopAntisemitism announces the launch of StopDontShop — a campaign to support businesses advocating for Israel and spotlighting those that support Hamas, because where you spend your money matters. 

Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, StopAntisemitism has received numerous requests from followers to expose businesses that support Hamas terrorists, as well as highlight those that stand in solidarity with Israel. 

The result is StopDontShop, an interactive website that allows you to filter businesses based on rating, location, and category.

• StopDontShop (RED) – Businesses that support Hamas and/or espouse hatred towards the Jewish people and nation

• Caution (YELLOW) – Businesses that need clarity on any rumors pertaining to their real or perceived position on the Israel-Hamas war

• Shop (GREEN) — You should support this business. They have demonstrated unwavering support for the Jewish people and nation and/or have taken a stand against terrorism. 

Ahead of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, it’s important for consumers to be aware of where they’re spending their hard earned money. This website highlights businesses across numerous industries such as fashion, tech, entertainment, sports, medical, retail, and more. Consumers can also filter businesses by brick and mortar locations in cities across the U.S. as well as online retailers.

“The mission of this campaign is to empower consumers with information,” said StopAntisemitism Executive Director Liora Rez. “As we approach the holiday shopping season, StopDon’tShop encourages everyone to think twice about the impact of their spending. By providing clear categories and detailed insights, our campaign aims to guide consumers across various industries, ensuring they make informed choices that align with their values.” 

Consumers can email info@stopdontshop.org to have businesses added or to provide cause for having a rating changed. To learn more about StopDontShop, visit stopdontshop.org. 

StopAntisemitism is a watchdog organization dedicated to holding antisemites accountable and creating consequences for their actions by exposing them through social media, blog posts, and other channels. Founded in 2018, StopAntisemitism has made a critical impact in the fight against Jewish hate and bigotry in America. For more information or to report antisemitic behavior, visit: StopAntisemitism.org.