Village of River Forest and Village of Oak Park Joint Release: Statement in Response to Recent Racist and Anti-Semitic Activities

November, 9, 2018

As our communities grapple with the recent troubling incidents at Oak Park and River Forest High School and at our Jewish temples, we want to reassure everyone that all available resources are focused on ensuring the safety of our residents and business community.

Since the first report of the racist and anti-Semitic graffiti on school property and the disorderly conduct and criminal trespass arrest at the West Suburban Temple Har Zion in River Forest, the Oak Park and River Forest Police Departments have significantly increased their presence in and around our communities. They also are relying on well-established relationships with other law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, to assist in the investigation.

Together, our priority is ensuring our communities remain a safe place, including our educational institutions and places of worship. By working together as neighbors and communities, we are confident that these incidents will be resolved and their long-term impact minimized.

In the meantime, we ask for your patience, cooperation and support as the investigative process continues.

Anan Abu-Taleb

Catherine Adduci

Mayor, Village of Oak Park

President, Village of River Forest

Click here for a copy of the joint release