Community Solidarity & Safety Coalition (CSSC) Statement on the Antisemitic Killing in Washington, D.C. 
 

The Community Solidarity & Safety Coalition (CSSC) is devastated by the targeted, antisemitic murder of two Israeli Embassy staff members outside the DC Jewish Museum during an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee. The gathering brought together young Jews and diplomats to learn about international humanitarian aid. This violent act was not random. It was the deliberate targeting of a young couple based on perceived Jewish identity by an individual driven by anti-Jewish hate. 
 

Hateful rhetoric, whether based on religion, race, or sexual orientation, has escalated into offline violence. The rise in antisemitism is not new, but it is intensifying. According to the ADL (the Anti-Defamation League), there were 9,354 antisemitic incidents reported across the United States in 2024. This represents a 5 percent increase from the previous year and a 344 percent increase over the past five years. It is the highest level ever recorded in ADL's 46 years of tracking. 
 

CSSC is a coalition of 29 organizations representing a diverse range of communities and identities.  We are united in the belief that hate spares no one and that true safety is only possible when it extends to all of us. Founded on the principles of collective safety and solidarity, we work to equip NGOs and at-risk communities with the tools they need to protect their staff and those they serve. 
 

In the words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” 
 

Chief Renee Hall, CSSC Executive Director, issued the following statement: "This heinous act was not only an attack on Jews, but an attack on all who value human dignity, democracy, and a world free from hate. As representatives of communities that are often targeted by bigotry, we will not be driven by fear. We will lead with conviction and remain committed to building safety, strength, and resilience across all of our communities." 

 

The leadership of ADL and National Urban League, co-convenors of CSSC, also issued the following statements:  

 

"This targeted killing is a stark reminder that antisemitic hate is not just rhetoric, it is a growing and deadly threat. At ADL, we are proud to stand with CSSC and our partners to advance collective safety and confront extremism. The Jewish people are not going anywhere, and neither are our friends. Together, we are part of the American fabric and help shape the nation we love. We will respond to this hate with increased preparation, response, and – most importantly – pride.”  
— Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director 

 

“Even in this sad era of heightened political violence, last night’s murders of two Israeli Embassy aides are shocking and appalling. Our hearts are with the families of Yaron Lischinsk and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, and all those who have suffered antisemitic violence. That this atrocity was committed during a celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month only highlights the ongoing horror of antisemitism. The National Urban League continues to stand in solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters and remains committed to the fight against hate, discrimination, and terrorism."
— Marc Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League 
 

In response to this tragedy, CSSC will soon release a new safety guide for NGOs as they prepare for the summer months. We remain committed to ensuring our communities are informed, prepared, and empowered. 

 

Our hearts are with the Jewish community during this painful time. We stand united in our commitment to confront hate in all its forms.