Nassau Standard

On March 11, 2025, New York State Assemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst) joined fellow Assembly members in advocating for increased funding to enhance the safety of nonpublic schools. This initiative comes in response to a notable rise in antisemitic incidents across the state.

Assemblyman Sam Berger is introducing legislation aimed at securing additional security funding. Standing with Berger, Assemblyman Brown emphasized his dedication to protecting Jewish students and institutions. "We are here today because the safety of our children is non-negotiable," said Brown. He highlighted the frequent acts of antisemitism occurring in various settings, including streets, neighborhoods, schools, and college campuses. According to Brown, Jewish students face harassment and intimidation not only from radical activists but also from faculty and administrators who either ignore or contribute to a hostile environment.

Reports indicate that Jewish students at universities statewide have encountered increasing threats such as physical altercations, verbal abuse, and exclusion from campus activities due to their faith. "What’s happening on college campuses is unacceptable," Brown stated. He pointed out that Jewish students are subjected to spitting, threats, and ostracization. The issue extends beyond higher education into public schools where antisemitic rhetoric has also risen.

In 2024, $70 million was allocated to the Nonpublic School Safety Equipment (NPSE) program for security personnel and equipment in nonpublic schools. However, due to escalating threats, Brown and his colleagues advocate for an increase to $90 million in this year's budget. "These funds are essential," said Brown. He noted that Jewish schools have spent significant amounts on security measures necessary for student safety. The proposed increase would facilitate hiring more trained security personnel and installing advanced surveillance systems.

Brown and his colleagues urge Speaker Carl Heastie and the Assembly to prioritize this funding during budget negotiations. "We cannot afford to ignore what is happening in our state," concluded Brown. He stressed that history demonstrates the dangers of ignoring antisemitism and called for decisive action from New York to protect Jewish lives and ensure student safety.