New York City Mayor Eric Adams is taking action to protect the city’s Jewish community following a violent antisemitic attack in Boulder, Colorado, over the weekend. This incident involved an individual attacking a peaceful gathering that was advocating for the release of hostages held by Hamas since the attacks on October 7, 2023. In response, Adams emphasized the need for heightened security at religious sites in New York City, especially with the sacred holiday of Shavuot approaching.
In a statement, Adams called the Boulder attack “horrific” and vowed to ensure the safety of New York’s Jewish population. He announced that the New York Police Department (NYPD) would increase its presence at religious locations throughout the city as a precautionary measure. “We will not rest until we root out this unacceptable violence and rhetoric from our communities,” he said.
The mayor’s office also indicated that the city’s approach to combating antisemitism would remain strong in the wake of the Boulder incident. Adams has previously established an Office to Combat Antisemitism, making New York City the first major U.S. city to do so. This office aims to address antisemitism through legal action and community outreach.
Following the Boulder attack, other city leaders across the country expressed their outrage and concern. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass labeled the incident as “an atrocious affront to the very fabric of our society.” She plans to hold an emergency meeting focused on safety measures for the upcoming holiday.
In Miami Beach, which has a significant Jewish population, local authorities have also ramped up security. Police have developed detailed operational plans for managing protests, whether they are pro-Israel or pro-Palestinian. Officer Christopher Bess noted that the police department is committed to protecting residents and maintaining order during demonstrations.
The Boulder attack has raised alarms nationwide about rising antisemitism. Officials are working to ensure that such violence does not spread to other cities. As part of this effort, police departments are collaborating with community leaders and faith groups to enhance security and prevent future incidents.
Adams’ proactive measures reflect a growing recognition of the need to safeguard vulnerable communities and combat hate in all its forms. The city is determined to stand firm against antisemitism and provide a safe environment for all its residents.