A Highland Park family is speaking out after receiving a threatening, antisemitic letter at their home — a disturbing incident that has sparked widespread condemnation and prompted an investigation by local police, the FBI, and a hazardous materials team.
The letter, which targeted the family for displaying pro-Israel signs in their yard, contained antisemitic language and referred to a toxic substance. The material was eventually determined to be non-toxic, but the threat was taken seriously.
“We are horrified that someone specifically targeted us for death threats and other harm…” This level of Jew-hatred, which is clearly on the rise in Chicago and around the world, is unacceptable in any form,” the family said in a statement issued through the Anti-Defamation League.
Neighbors and community leaders expressed their outrage.
“It is terrifying, and it is really sad that in a country that is supposed to be free, you can not express yourself openly,” said Kacey Heller, a nearby resident with children in a Jewish preschool.
The ADL’s Midwest Regional Director, David Goldenberg, confirmed the family’s ongoing support and stated that the community has seen “record levels of antisemitic incidents — harassment, vandalism, and even violence.”
Goldenberg stated that the letter was sent via U.S. Mail, elevating the case to the federal level.
“It is the brazenness, and in many ways, the cowardice of these acts that is so troubling,” he told me. “This was an anonymous threat, sent to someone is home, just because they are Jewish.”
According to Alison Pure-Slovin of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, the larger pattern of hatred must be addressed.
“We have allowed antisemitism to fester in this country,” she told the audience. “When you dehumanize Israel and Zionists, it leads directly to this kind of hate.”
The Highland Park Police Department confirmed that the letter was deemed non-hazardous, but stressed that the investigation is still ongoing, with assistance from federal partners.
The city has also issued a statement condemning anti-Semitism and urging residents to remain vigilant.
Authorities are still investigating whether other families have received similar threats.
Residents have been encouraged by community organizations not to hide their identities.
“This family is shaken but resolved,” Goldenberg stated. “They are proud to be Jewish, and that will not change.”
