VENTNOR CITY, N.J. — Volunteers setting up for the 20th Annual Jewish Summer Fest in Ventnor on Sunday evening were interrupted by a lone protester who shouted anti-Israel and anti-Jewish remarks for more than 20 minutes before police intervened, organizers said.
The incident occurred during preparations for the community event at Newport Avenue and the beach, hosted by Chabad at the Shore. Organizers said the festival proceeded as planned after officers from the Ventnor Police Department responded to the scene.
Rabbi Avrohom Rapoport of Chabad at the Shore said volunteers were subjected to repeated verbal harassment while preparing for the event.
“We were trying to set up the Jewish Summer festival in Ventnor, New Jersey, and this guy was yelling at our volunteers for more than 20 minutes about how we are killing babies and that we should not be allowed to have a festival as Jewish people,” Rapoport said in a social media video.
Despite the earlier nuiscance, Rabbi Rapoport later reported that the Sunday festival attracted 300 people and was a success. Beachgoers enjoyed kosher food and music into the evening.
Police respond as protest delays preparations
Video shared online shows the protester holding a Palestinian flag and yelling statements including, “The sign says Jewish Festival, disgusting,” and “Palestinians are dying.”
According to organizers, Ventnor police arrived and persuaded the individual to leave the area, allowing volunteers to complete preparations for the event.
No arrests or injuries were reported, and officials have not announced any criminal charges related to the incident.
Annual festival proceeded as planned
The Jewish Summer Fest is an annual family event organized by Chabad at the Shore featuring food, music, entertainment, and community activities at the Ventnor beachfront.
Despite the disruption during setup, the event was held Sunday evening as scheduled.
Key Points
- A lone protester interrupted preparations for the Jewish Summer Fest in Ventnor on Sunday.
- Organizers said volunteers were harassed for more than 20 minutes before police responded.
- The festival proceeded as planned after officers dispersed the individual.
FAQ
Where did the incident happen?
At Newport Avenue and the beach in Ventnor during setup for the Jewish Summer Fest.
Who organized the event?
Chabad at the Shore, led by Rabbi Avrohom Rapoport.
Did police respond?
Yes. Organizers said Ventnor police responded and dispersed the protester.
Were there any arrests?
No arrests or injuries have been reported.
Did the festival continue?
Yes. Organizers said the event proceeded as scheduled after the disruption.
Source: Chabad at the Shore, Rabbi Avrohom Rapoport Instagram, Israel Now Instagram
