Orange County marches against Anti-Semitism

A delegation from the Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County, joined by friends from the Jewish Federation of Ulster County, marched together with 25,000 others across the Brooklyn Bridge on Sunday at the "No Hate, No Fear" Solidarity March on Sunday, Jan. 5.

The march was organized in response to the growing number of anti-Semitic attacks against the Jewish community, including recent attacks in Jersey City, Brooklyn and Monsey.

The march drew support from dozens of organizations, including the United Jewish Appeal-Federation of New York, the Anti-Defamation League, the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, the New York Board of Rabbis and the American Jewish Committee.

“We have reached a breaking point in the Jewish community," said Rabbi Rachel Rubenstein, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County. “Since last year’s attack in Pittsburgh, the American Jewish community has been on high alert.

"With last month’s slew of attacks including the deadly attack in Jersey City, the daily barrage of attacks in Brooklyn, and the vicious attack right here in Monsey," Rubenstein added, "the Jewish community is coming together with our allies to say enough is enough.”

The Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County has partnered with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office on an initiative to educate students about the dangers of hate speech, and to train law enforcement to effectively investigate and prosecute hate crimes.

In addition, the Jewish Federation works with schools across the county to bring Holocaust education and anti-bias training to students and teachers.

“Together with our partners across the county," Rubenstein said, "we are committed to working toward a safer, more welcoming, and more caring Orange County for all its residents."

To report an anti-Semitic incident in our county, email the Jewish Federation at info@jewishorangeny.org or call 845-562-7860.