Pro-Palestinian protesters march outside Rep. Schneider’s home in middle of night

Highland Park police broke up a pro-Palestinian march outside the home of U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider early Saturday morning, officials said.

According to a community advisory, police responding to a complaint of people shouting in the area of Woodland Road arrived at 2:47 a.m. to find about 40 protesters in the public right of way.

The protesters carried banners and shouted pro-Palestinian and antisemitic chants using loudspeakers and drums, according to the city’s advisory.

“It’s unfortunate that, instead of seeking a constructive dialogue with Congressman Schneider, a group of people hiding their faces chose to taunt and intimidate a predominantly Jewish neighborhood on the Jewish Sabbath in the middle of the night,” said Caitlyn McNamee, Schneider’s communications director.

“It’s even more disturbing they chose to harass a community that is preparing to commemorate the second anniversary of the Highland Park mass shooting, a shared tragedy that was spurred by hate,” she added.

According to the city, no one was arrested or cited because the protesters dispersed voluntarily.

“Had the protesters not immediately complied with police orders and voluntarily dispersed, there may have been actions for which citations could have been issued and arrests made under the state criminal code,” a Q&A on the city’s website states.

All protesters left by 3:15 a.m. and officers remained for two hours to complete the investigation and ensure resident safety, according to the city.

Additional patrols in neighborhoods were implemented and close watch is being kept on houses of worship, according to city officials.

If protesters return, officers will attempt to de-escalate the situation first and clear the area using peaceful means, according to the city.

“If protesters refuse to comply, officers will pursue other options such as citations and arrests,” the city stated online. “Not all charges result in offenders being taken into custody; some are citations in the field.”

“The city unequivocally condemns antisemitism and all acts of hate standing in solidarity with our Jewish community,” the statement adds.

McNamee said Schneider is willing meet with anyone under more reasonable circumstances.

“I encourage those who disagree with his views to seek a conversation in the daylight rather than disturbing and traumatizing families in the darkness of night,” she said.