Lake County Gazette

Libertyville, IL – In response to the ongoing tragedy following the death of six hostages by Hamas and the upcoming private screening of "Israelism" at the Northbrook Public Library on September 18, 2024, Jim Carris released a statement addressing these events.

“As someone who has experienced the terror of being held hostage, I speak from the heart when I say that the kidnapping and killing of innocent Israeli and American citizens, including Hersh Goldberg-Polin, is nothing short of evil. The fact that others remain held captive while the world watches is deeply personal to me, and it should be to all of us."

Carris continued to express concern about local issues: "Meanwhile, fringe groups in our own 10th Congressional District continue to spread antisemitic sentiments and undermine the pain and turmoil of all Israelis and Jewish Americans."

He urged local leaders to take a stand: "I call on Congressman Brad Schneider and every local leader to stand with me in publicly condemning the rising antisemitism that we’re seeing in parts of our society. It’s horrifying that hateful, destructive views are being spoken aloud in our community – a community that is deeply affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza, with personal connections that make this pain even sharper."

Carris concluded his statement by addressing the documentary screening event: "Let me be crystal clear: the fringe groups hosting the upcoming documentary screening event of 'Israelism' at the Northbrook Public Library do not represent the values of Illinois’ 10th District. Now is the time for all elected officials and candidates to stand on the side of compassion and for what’s right. I urge all of us to remain steadfast allies of Israel and Israeli people across the nation and our District and to continue to demand the release of the remaining hostages. This is a fight for decency and human rights, and I know firsthand that we cannot afford to lose.”