Community leaders, officials condemn atisemitic attack in Brooklyn

The Jewish Community Relations Council of New York (JCRC-NY), UJA-Federation of NY, the JCC of Canarsie, and various community partners and elected officials have united in their condemnation of a shocking antisemitic attack in Brooklyn’s East Flatbush neighborhood. The incident occurred on Wednesday in broad daylight, sparking outrage and calls for action.

These organizations and leaders will hold a press conference on Friday, May 31, at 9:00 am in front of Assembly Member Jaime Williams’ office (5318 Avenue N, Brooklyn) to denounce the attack and stand against antisemitic hatred.

According to police reports, a 58-year-old man verbally assaulted a group of Jewish people near the Mesivta Nachlas Yakov School, an Orthodox Jewish yeshiva on Glenwood Road. He threatened, “I’m gonna kill all the Jews,” and subsequently drove onto the sidewalk on E. 55th St., attempting to run over the pedestrians before fleeing the scene.

“No community should ever have to fear a dangerous attack intentionally targeting students because of their faith and identity,” said Mark Treyger, CEO of JCRC-NY. “This horrifying incident represents an escalation in antisemitism in New York City. We cannot and will not tolerate such blatant acts of hatred and violence.”

UJA-Federation of New York expressed gratitude to the NYPD for their prompt response and the arrest of the suspect. “UJA-Federation is deeply grateful to the NYPD for their swift and decisive action in arresting the individual charged with intending to murder Jews on our streets. We applaud the DA’s office for filing multiple hate crime charges,” the organization stated.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) also condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for strong legal action. “The recent antisemitic attack in Brooklyn was shocking and deeply disturbing. I am grateful that no one was physically injured. The alleged perpetrator must be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. No one should fear for their safety because they are Jewish.”

Assembly Member Jaime Williams highlighted the broader implications of such acts of hatred. “This country was created in part to separate ourselves from the hatred and war that has divided the world for centuries. People of many different backgrounds live in our city peacefully. All people of good faith must condemn this terrible act. We vow to redouble our efforts to counter calls for hate and violence.”

NYC Council Member Farah N. Louis expressed her distress over the incident, calling for a proactive approach to combating antisemitism. “I am appalled and disturbed by the senseless act of bigotry and violence. No group or community should live in fear of violence, discrimination, or intimidation. We must address the rising trend of antisemitism to prevent such hateful acts in the future.”

This abhorrent act of antisemitic hate serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance against bigotry, discrimination, and violence targeting any community. United in their condemnation, community leaders and officials reaffirmed their commitment to fostering mutual understanding, respect, and safety for all New Yorkers. Through solidarity and embracing diversity, they aim to defeat the forces of hatred and ensure New York remains a welcoming home for all.