Oak Park Statement on Recent Acts of Gun Violence and Hatred

Published on December 17, 2025

The Village of Oak Park stands in profound sorrow and solidarity with the families, friends and communities affected by the tragic shooting at Brown University, and by the horrific attack at Bondi Beach, Australia, where a joyous Chanukah celebration was shattered by gunfire targeting the Jewish community. Such attacks motivated by antisemitism and hatred are unconscionable and have no place in our global community.

These tragedies are stark reminders of the destructive toll of gun violence and the urgent need to confront the ideologies that fuel hatred and division. Whether in a university classroom or at a cultural celebration, every life is precious, and every member of our global community deserves to live free from fear. We unequivocally condemn all forms of antisemitism, racism and hatred, and we stand united with Jewish communities in the United States, Australia and around the world against such bigotry.

Oak Park remains committed to fostering safety, compassion and respect for all. May all who mourn find comfort, and may we work together to build a more peaceful and just world.

About Oak Park - The Village of Oak Park, located just nine miles west of downtown Chicago, offers a distinctive urban/suburban lifestyle in a thriving, multi-cultural community. Well-known for progressive values, tree-lined streets and bustling business districts, Oak Park serves as an ideal place to live, work and play. As a longstanding community of choice, the Village benefits from convenient access to local and regional transit, high-quality public schools, and arts and cultural attractions, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio and his acclaimed Unity Temple, which was recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.