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Jewish groups to hold rally against antisemitism in Princeton Thursday

Jewish groups in the Mercer County area are planning to protest antisemitism Thursday, June 17, at a rally in Princeton.

The demonstration comes after fighting in the Middle East sparked tensions in the U.S. Harassment targeting Jews broke out in some places during the 11 days of fighting between Israelis and Palestinians that ended in a ceasefire on May 20. According to New York City police, there have been 80 antisemitic hate crime reports made this year, compared with 62 over the same period last year.

Two pro-Palestinian rallies were held in Princeton in recent weeks. At one rally, a small group of counter-protesters clashed with pro-Palestinian rally goers.

The goal of the Stand Against Antisemitism rally is to hold a peaceful event to show solidarity against hatred, according to organizers. The event is being organized by a diverse group of Jewish organizations that includes the Jewish Federation of Princeton Mercer Bucks, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Mercer, Adath Israel Congregation, Beth El Synagogue, Congregation Beth Chaim, Har Sinai Temple, Temple Micah, the Jewish Center of Princeton, the American Jewish Committee, the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Mercer, JCC Princeton Mercer Bucks, Jewish Family and Children’s Services of Greater Mercer County, and the Princeton Hillel.

The rally against antisemitism is set for 5 p.m. at Hinds Plaza, which is located on Witherspoon Street in downtown Princeton next to the public library.