If you are aware of something that may be an antisemitic incident, please say something.
Some antisemitic incidents in Wisconsin likely go unreported, but if you report, it can help with efforts to protect and support the Jewish community, said Roberta Clark, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Milwaukee Jewish Federation.
“We can’t create the best proactive and reactive plans if we don’t have the data,” Clark said.
The Federation is urging members of the community to report any incidents they believe might be antisemitic — even if they aren’t sure. An easy-to-use incident report form is available on the Milwaukee Jewish Federation website, and it only takes five to seven minutes to complete, Clark said. Reports can include photos or video, and users can remain anonymous.
Clark pointed to a recent example when 12 Jewish teens met with community leaders and 11 said they had experienced antisemitism. Not one had reported it. “They were concerned about retribution, especially if a teacher was involved,” Clark said. “But also, they just didn’t know how important reporting it was.”
A 2024 survey by the American Jewish Committee found that one in three Jews in America has been a victim of antisemitism, either in person or online.
Yet many people do not report, for fear of retribution, a belief that nothing will change, or the idea that it’s not worth the trouble, Clark said.
“This becomes dangerous,” Clark said. “Because when we don’t respond, it becomes acceptable.”
Clark noted that reporting not only helps victims, but also gives the community tools to recognize patterns, connect the dots, and deploy resources effectively — whether that means education, security enhancements, or advocacy.
She also emphasized the confidentiality of the process. “We’re not going to share your name. We just need the data—what happened, when, where, who was involved,” she said.
The JCRC recently completed its statewide audit of antisemitic incidents for 2024, confirming 95 incidents—down from 114 the previous year. But Clark doesn’t believe that reflects reality.
“I don’t for a second believe there were fewer incidents,” she said. “Nationally, antisemitic incidents are the highest they’ve been since the ADL started tracking them in 1976. Reporting is what’s down.”
“If you think something might be antisemitic, report it,” Clark said. “It gives us a better picture. It helps us protect our community. And it helps ensure that hate does not go unchallenged.”
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There are three ways to report a suspected antisemitic or anti-Israeli incident to Milwaukee Jewish Federation. You can call, email, or submit an online form to report threats, incidents, or suspicious activity related to Jewish organizations, facilities, or community members:
CALL: 414-967-SAFE
EMAIL: Security@JewishSecurityWI.org
SUBMIT A FORM: Visit MilwaukeeJewish.org/Report-Incident
If you believe your or someone else’s life is in danger, or that a crime has been committed, please call 9-1-1 first to report the incident to law enforcement.
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