Community Unites Against Hate Crime

Heartened by the united front we as a Crown Heights community showed yesterday in speaking out against two crimes over the past two weeks where Jewish men were brutally attacked walking home on Shabbos, the Jewish Sabbath.  Thanks to all the rabbis, ministers, advocacy groups, colleagues, and community residents who showed solidarity yesterday and continue to show that we will stand up to hate. 

My full statement:

I condemn these vicious attacks. As a community, we must stand united in speaking out against these hateful, anti-Semitic crimes. These attacks are an assault on decency and an assault on our values; they are crimes that are especially cruel for violating the sanctity of a time for worship, peace, and reflection. When an attacker aims to divide and isolate us from one another, then it is even more important to speak out together, to unite and say everyone in our community deserves safe streets, dignity, and respect. It is important to stand with and support the victims of these crimes, to let them know you are not alone. I urge any member of the public who can aid police as they investigate these crimes to come forward. Our streets should be safe for every member of our diverse community and I join in upholding our true values.