Maryland Commission on Civil Rights Statement
Condemning Anti-Semitism and All Forms of Discrimination
Over the last several years, and more so in the last few weeks, the American Jewish community has seen a dramatic rise in anti-Semitic hate crimes leaving the American Jewish community feeling vulnerable. These recent anti-Semitic acts are hateful and harmful to both those subjected to them and to our society at large. The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights stands in solidarity with the American Jewish community. It is our duty to speak out in support of our neighbors, colleagues, and community members.
Verbal and physical assaults against individual Jews, against the Jewish community, and against Jewish institutions and religious facilities are abhorrent and must stop. While the increase in attacks may be motivated by current events, senseless violence against the American Jewish community is not the answer and will not lead to change or peace.
As the agency in State government with the responsibility of enforcing Maryland’s anti-discrimination statutes preventing unlawful discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodations, and State contracts, the Commission is committed to combating unlawful discrimination throughout our State. The mission of the Commission is not an easy one, but it is an important one. The Commission remains committed, as a public agency which represents the best chance for many people to be heard in an unbiased platform, to our mission and authentic in pursuing our statutory charge. A critical part of MCCR’s mission is to promote and improve civil rights in Maryland.
Gary C. Norman, J.D., L.L.M., Commission Chairperson
Alvin O. Gillard, Executive Director
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