Councilmember Speer’s Statement on the Pearl St. Attack

June 1, 2025

This afternoon, a hate-filled individual attacked a peaceful gathering of Jews in our downtown mall. 

For over 600 days, this peaceful group has walked every Sunday to raise awareness of the hostages violently taken in Israel on October 7 and still held captive. 

My heart and prayers are with the victims, their family members, and the Jewish community in Boulder and beyond, who have felt increasingly unsafe since October 7. 

For many Jews, today is a shock but not a surprise.

That someone would attack peaceful Jewish community members validates the legitimate fear of many Boulder-area Jews as they face rising antisemitism. 

Violence is abhorrent. Hate has no place here.

In Boulder, we honor each other’s differences. We stand up for each other. We know that doing so makes us stronger. 

This is the second time our community has experienced a violent, public attack in recent years. I am once again grateful to the first responders and witnesses who jumped in to aid victims, stop the attacker, and prevent more violence.

I hope you will join me in condemning today’s horrific act of hate, praying for the victims and their families, friends, and community, and committing to move forward together with respect and compassion for each other. 

This is a traumatic time. If you or someone you know needs professional assistance or is in crisis, please reach out to Colorado Crisis Services by calling 1-844-493-8255 or texting “TALK” to 38255.

Nicole Speer, Ph.D.
Boulder City Councilmember