BBC Radio 4 presenter Emma Barnett has become the latest victim of antisemitic abuse after her Manchester home was targeted with offensive graffiti in what police are treating as a hate crime.
The award-winning broadcaster, who hosts both Woman's Hour and Newsnight, revealed the deeply distressing incident occurred at her property in Greater Manchester, leaving her family shaken and the local community in shock.
Police Investigation Underway
Greater Manchester Police have confirmed they are actively investigating the antisemitic vandalism after being alerted to the incident. Officers have been conducting house-to-house enquiries and reviewing CCTV footage from the area in an effort to identify the perpetrators.
This isn't just an attack on property, a police spokesperson commented, but a targeted assault on an individual because of their faith. We're treating this with the utmost seriousness.
Community Solidarity and Outrage
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from political figures and community leaders across Manchester. Local councillors have expressed their horror at the attack, while Jewish community organisations have offered support to the Barnett family.
Fellow broadcaster and barrister Rob Rinder was among those voicing support, describing the attack as sickening and cowardly in a social media post that highlighted the rising tide of antisemitism in the UK.
Pattern of Rising Antisemitism
This attack comes amid growing concerns about increasing antisemitic incidents across Britain. Community security groups have reported a significant rise in hate crimes targeting Jewish individuals and institutions in recent months.
Barnett, who has been increasingly vocal about her Jewish identity in her broadcasting work, now joins a worrying list of public figures targeted because of their faith. The incident has reignited conversations about the need for stronger measures to combat religious hatred in communities across the country.
As the investigation continues, community leaders are calling for unity and urging anyone with information about the attack to come forward to Greater Manchester Police.
