Lititz Business Owner Receives Anonymous Letter Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

28 Oct, 2023

Lititz Business Owner Receives Anonymous Letter Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

A business owner in Lancaster County is taking a stand after receiving a hateful letter in the midst of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Hamzah Dawood, the proprietor of Greco's Italian Ice and Homemade Ice Cream, made a disturbing discovery when an anonymous hate letter was found in the business's mailbox shortly after closing on Monday evening. The letter contained a derogatory message, stating, 'Leave Lititz, you Hamas terrorist.'

"It's not something you can prepare for," remarked Dawood. "When I found the letter, I took a moment to pause. I was quite perplexed, as one might expect, wondering why someone would engage in such behavior."

Dawood views this incident as another unfortunate consequence of the Israel-Hamas War, which has led to reports of increased harassment of both Jewish and Muslim individuals by civil rights groups across the United States.

"Even in what is often referred to as the 'coolest small town in America,' such incidents can occur, and it's crucial for people to recognize that," Dawood emphasized.

Janelle Hoover, the owner of The Purple Turtle, expressed her dismay at the situation, saying, "It's disheartening because it originates from someone who hasn't taken the time to get to know [Hamzah] as a person."

Neighboring businesses, such as The Purple Turtle, have come together to support Dawood and the employees of Greco's. Hoover underscored the emotional impact the hate letter had on business owners throughout Lititz.

"We are fully committed to supporting him and demonstrating to the broader community that this is not who we are," Hoover asserted.

Lititz Police informed FOX43 News that, at present, there is no additional information available about the incident, and there are no identified suspects.

Dawood expressed his gratitude for the community's support and remains committed to spreading love throughout Lititz.

"Greco's will always choose love, and it's truly special to see the community rallying behind that sentiment."