The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, ADL Philadelphia, and AJC Philadelphia/Southern NJ unequivocally condemn the rally that took place today in Philadelphia for its glorification of terrorism, incitement to violence, and antisemitic rhetoric. 

The rally, organized by the Philly Palestine Coalition, took place in Rittenhouse Square and was advertised using the slogan “Abu Obeida lives,” invoking the former spokesperson of Hamas’ armed wing. Hamas is a U.S.-designated terrorist organization responsible for the murder, rape and kidnapping of Israeli and American civilians.

The rally included the glorification of terrorism, chants calling for an “intifada,” speakers calling to “keep the Zionist enemy in fear,” individuals openly displaying Hamas flags, and effigies of Israeli soldiers depicted in nooses.

Most alarming, one speaker stated, “Martyrdom is a commitment, a principle. It gives life to the movement and carries it forward…our task is to identify tangible, precise ways to attack the genocidal Zionist enemy and actually f—ing attack.”

This was not a metaphor or abstract political speech. It was explicit incitement for violence.

Such language and imagery are dangerous, antisemitic and unacceptable. A recent FBI report noted that nearly 70% of religious-based hate crimes target Jews and this type of activity directly endangers the Jewish community and undermines the safety of all Philadelphians, creating a climate of fear in our city. Calls for “martyrdom,” praise for terrorist organizations, and depictions of people in nooses are hallmarks of violent extremism, not civic discourse.

No matter what one thinks of the war in Gaza, nothing justifies celebrating terrorism, threatening violence or terrorizing communities here at home. When extremist rhetoric and symbols are normalized in public spaces, they embolden hatred and undermine the safety and values of Philadelphia.

We call on all elected officials in Philadelphia, at every level of government, to speak out clearly and unequivocally against what occurred, against the glorification of terrorism, incitement to violence and antisemitic conduct displayed in one of the city’s most prominent public spaces. 

Silence in moments like this is not neutrality. It is acquiescence.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, ADL Philadelphia and AJC Philadelphia/Southern NJ will continue to stand against antisemitism, extremism and hate in all its forms and to work with partners across the city to ensure Philadelphia remains a place where no community is targeted or made to live in fear. 

Endorsed by:

ADL Philadelphia
AJC Philadelphia/Southern NJ
Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia

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About the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
Since 1901, the Jewish Federation has served as the hub of the region’s Jewish communities, providing an infrastructure of support for Jewish people and organizations in need. Through grants, emergency funding, restricted gifts, endowments, and our partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Schools, we annually invest in caring for those in need, combating antisemitism and global crisis, and securing a vibrant Jewish future. For more information, please visit: jewishphilly.org.