As residents, business owners, and tourists in Downtown St. Louis, we are living under constant harassment from a group known as the Hebrew Israelites. Women are being targeted and racial slurs have become a frequent occurrence for us all every Saturday. This is not only affecting our peace of mind but also our sense of safety.

The impact on our community is tangible and distressing. Our neighborhood should be a place where everyone feels safe and respected, regardless of their race or gender. However, this group's actions are creating an environment filled with fear and anxiety.

According to the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), there has been a noticeable increase in hate groups across America over recent years - with 917 active hate groups recorded in 2016 alone (source: SPLC). While we understand that freedom of speech is a fundamental right protected by our constitution, it should not be used as an excuse to perpetrate hate crimes or harass innocent people.

We urge local authorities to take immediate action against this group disturbing our neighborhood's peace. We call upon them to enforce laws against harassment and hate speech strictly so that we can reclaim our streets from those who seek to divide us.

Please sign this petition if you believe that every resident deserves to live without fear or intimidation in their own neighborhood.