By Trend News Line 2024-03-29 17:21:00.
Holocaust survivor heckled and mother laughed at by pro-Palestinian protesters at Berkeley city council meeting
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In a shocking turn of events at a recent Berkeley city council meeting, a Holocaust survivor was heckled and a mother sharing her son’s experience with antisemitism was laughed at by pro-Palestinian protesters. The disruptions took place during a session that lasted over three hours and included important agenda items related to Holocaust Remembrance Day.
According to recordings and videos shared by the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), the meeting saw a series of interruptions by pro-Palestinian speakers who accused the council of being influenced by Jewish organizations. One particularly distressing moment occurred when Susanne Dewitt, an 89-year-old Holocaust survivor who was sent to the Dachau concentration camp with her family at a young age, was jeered by protesters as she spoke about the rise in antisemitism.
Despite Dewitt’s powerful testimony about the surge in antisemitism following recent events, including the October 7 Massacre, protesters shouted derogatory remarks and tried to silence her. Similar treatment was received by a mother, Melissa Chapman, who shared her son’s fear of being targeted because of his Jewish identity.
The disruptions continued as anti-Zionist Jews and other speakers accused the council of ignoring the plight of Palestinians while focusing on Holocaust remembrance. These speakers called for a ceasefire in Gaza and accused the council members of being swayed by Jewish lobbying groups.
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Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin condemned the disruptive behavior at the meeting, calling it “hateful and deeply antisemitic.” He reassured the community that such actions would not be tolerated. Council Member Terry Taplin also expressed shock at the treatment of Jewish community members, including Holocaust survivors, during the meeting.
Despite the calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and accusations of bias towards Israel, some residents argued that the council should prioritize local issues, such as the escalation of antisemitism within the community. One resident shared her young son’s experience of facing antisemitic remarks at school, only to be met with laughter from the protesters.
The disruptions culminated in chants of pro-Palestinian slogans and accusations of Zionism being equivalent to hatred and bigotry. The council members were verbally attacked and accused of being traitors to the country.
In response to the chaotic meeting, several speakers criticized the protesters for their uncivilized behavior and urged them to engage in respectful dialogue. The tense atmosphere at the council meeting highlighted the deep divisions within the community over issues related to antisemitism, Palestine, and Israel.
The incidents at the Berkeley city council meeting serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Holocaust survivors and Jewish community members in addressing antisemitism and promoting understanding and tolerance. Despite the disruptions, council members remained committed to upholding the values of inclusivity and respect for all community members..
anti-israel protesters heckle holocaust survivor in city council meeting
anti-israel protesters disrupt holocaust survivor at city council meeting.
