By Nuha Abdessalam
A Hickory Hills family that received a hate letter in October because they had a Palestinian flag on the front lawn has received a second letter, this time marked “Final Notice.”
Lila Gaber, 35, whose family received the original letter on Oct. 24, found the typewritten letter while chatting with her husband and getting the mail on Dec. 19.
Almost immediately alarmed by how the letter was addressed, Gaber felt uneasy.
“I knew as I was talking to my husband, the letter looked odd on how it was addressed. I even said to him without knowing yet, ‘Oh, my God,’ we got another letter,” added Gaber.
Hickory Hills police officers were met by the Gabers at their home to retrieve the envelope.
Inside they found a letter that read:
“FINAL NOTICE….
“Why do you continue to disrespect the United States of America and the Christian people of Hickory Hills, who built this community with your display of HAMAS and EVIL and killers of innocent women and children.
“THIS IS NOT PALESTINE
“IF YOU WANT TO FREE IT, GO BACK AND FREE IT. YOUR BELIEFS ARE NOT WELCOME HERE.”
Hickory Hills Chief of Police Jason Bray confirmed there was an ongoing investigation and said he was working with the U.S. Postal Service.
“We continue to explore all methods in helping to identify and work with investigators,” Bray said. “We want to bring closure for the Gaber family and provide security and safety.”
Lila, who has three children, expressed her appreciation for local neighbors and residents standing in solidarity with her family.
In fear of what will happen next, Gaber said, “What happens if I don’t remove my sign? Why am I not feeling free in my own home?”
“It’s unfortunate how people perceive the sign,” she said. “To begin with, the meaning behind the sign is freeing Palestine from oppression and genocide.”