Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A group of concerned Illinois lawmakers held a Blue Room news conference at the Capitol on Tuesday morning.

The topic was the recent wave of hate crimes directed at Jews and the Jewish community in the state and the nation.

The event was led by State Senator Laura Fine, who expressed sadness and anger at the many attacks but especially the targeted assassination of a young Jewish couple as they left a ceremony celebrating Jewish heritage in Washington, DC. last Wednesday.

She said criticism of any government is an American right but violence against any group must be met by a united community with firm resolve.

State Representative Tracy Katz-Muhl told reporters that while 68% of violent attacks against religious groups are directed at Jews, they make up only 2.4% of the US population.

She suggested joining the STOP THE HATE campaign and reminded folks to always report any hate crime to the Illinois Hate Hotline at 877-45-HATE.