We’re living in distressing times, Save Jerseyans, with eerie parallels elsewhere in our history.
For example, the administration of FDR refused entry to the U.S. for thousands of Jewish refugees trying to escape the Nazis. Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R, NJ-02), a student of history, may’ve had this episode in mind when he led a group of eight congressman in requesting – as his office describes it – “a lawful pathway for any individual identifying as Jewish who requires immediate temporary relocation.”
Specifically, Van Drew and his colleagues want to see the creation of a specific humanitarian parole category for individuals of Jewish faith and descent with the goal of streamlining the process for relocation to the United States.
“The abhorrent and disgusting events that have unfolded across America, and across the world, since the barbaric October 7th terrorist attack on innocent Israelis should shock everyone to their core,” wrote Van Drew in the bipartisan letter to Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. “Jewish individuals are scared to leave their homes, are being antagonized and harassed daily, and even murdered, simply for being Jewish.”
“The Biden administration must step up and offer refuge to Jews across the world who fear for their lives and require immediate temporary relocation by providing expedited entry into the United States,” Van Drew continued. “Our nation has always stood as a beacon of hope to those who are persecuted, and we must stand strong on our foundational principles by providing unwavering support for Jewish communities across the world.”
The request comes amid a time of increased serious threats and violent actions against Jews around the globe catalyzed anti-Semites reacting to the conflict in Gaza. Recent troubling incidents range from an October 18th Molotov cocktail attack on a Berlin synagogue to a rally outside the Sydney Opera House punctuated by “gas the Jews” and “death to the Jews” chants from attendees.
