Two Jewish DePaul Students Attacked, Punched Near Campus

Incident Being Investigated as Hate Crime

Two Jewish DePaul students showing support for Israel were punched Wednesday afternoon outside the Lincoln Park campus in an incident police are investigating as a hate crime.

Attack Details

About 3:20 p.m., the students were outside the student center in the 2200 block of North Sheffield Avenue when two men wearing black face masks punched them, according to a letter to the campus from DePaul University President Robert L. Manuel.

Background

The students, one of whom is a former Israel Defense Forces soldier, often stand outside the student center and engage passersby in conversations and debates, Metro Chicago Hillel at DePaul said Thursday.

Attack Description

The masked men approached the students, who were wearing shirts that read “Anti Anti-Semitism Club” and “Curb Your Antisemitism.” One of the men appeared to be having a “polite conversation” with the students when the other masked man struck one of the students from behind, Metro Chicago Hillel said.

Beating

Both masked men then began beating him, one using a soda can to smash his head, Metro Chicago Hillel said. The other student was also attacked while trying to help.

Injuries and Investigation

The students, who police said were ages 27 and 21, suffered “physical injuries” when the older one was punched in the face, and the younger one was pushed to the ground, and one required further medical attention, Chicago police and the letter said.

Police Investigation

Police are investigating the attack as a hate crime.

DePaul University Response

Metro Chicago Hillel said DePaul Public Safety officers were present at the scene but did not intervene until after the attack.

Statement from DePaul University President

“We are outraged that this occurred on our campus. It is completely unacceptable and a violation of DePaul’s values to uphold and care for the dignity of every individual,” Manuel wrote in the letter. “We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure DePaul is a safe and welcoming space for every member of our diverse university community.”

Community Response

Metro Chicago Hillel said it’s relying on Chicago police and campus safety to “pursue and prosecute the attackers.”

Statement from Anti-Defamation League

“Chicago’s Jewish community continues to be the target of antisemitic harassment, vandalism and violence,” Anti-Defamation League Midwest Regional Director David Goldenberg said in a statement in response to the Wednesday incidents. According to the organization, there has been a 300% spike in the number of antisemitic incidents in Chicago over the last year.

Call for Tips

Anyone with information should contact DePaul Public Safety at 773-325-7777 in Lincoln Park or 312-362-8400 for the Loop campus. Tips can also be submitted to Chicago police at 312-744-8261 or at cpdtip.com.

Conclusion

The attack on the two Jewish DePaul students is a disturbing reminder of the ongoing threat of antisemitism in our community. We hope that those responsible will be brought to justice and that the university will take steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

FAQs

Q: What happened to the students?
A: The students were punched and beaten by two men wearing black face masks outside the student center on the Lincoln Park campus.

Q: Is the attack being investigated as a hate crime?
A: Yes, the attack is being investigated as a hate crime by the Chicago Police Department.

Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.

Q: How can I report any information about the attack?
A: Anyone with information should contact DePaul Public Safety at 773-325-7777 in Lincoln Park or 312-362-8400 for the Loop campus. Tips can also be submitted to Chicago police at 312-744-8261 or at cpdtip.com.