Nassau Standard

Mar 26 2024

In the months leading up to the October 7th terrorist attacks in Gaza, the Senate Republican Antisemitism Working Group focused on addressing the surge of Jewish hate crimes in New York State. The group aimed to shed light on the escalating anti-Jewish sentiment and hate crimes in a state known for its historical tolerance. "What we knew at that time was already unsettling," remarked a member of the working group.

With 263 anti-semitic attacks reported in New York City in 2022, more than double the previous years, the severity of the issue became apparent, highlighting a nationwide concern. "Worse still, the trend was not raising eyebrows and few elected officials were speaking out," emphasized the group.

New York State, home to the largest Jewish population in the United States, has witnessed a significant increase in antisemitic hate crimes. In response, the New York State Senate Republican Conference established an antisemitism working group in February 2023. Senator Jack Martins was appointed as the Chair, leading Senators Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Joseph Griffo, Peter Oberacker, and Bill Weber in the efforts to combat antisemitism.

The working group engaged with stakeholders through various meetings and hosted two roundtable hearings, the first in Rockland County on September 19th and the second in Nassau County on September 26th. The group's dedication to addressing the rise of antisemitic incidents in New York State remains steadfast.