Rep. Meng Joins Congregation Ohr Natan to Mark Druzhba Anniversary

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng speaks at the anniversary of Druzbha, North America’s largest Russian-language Jewish interest magazine. Eagle photos by Andy Katz.

By Andy Katz

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng joined Congregation Ohr Natan, the spiritual center of Queen’s thriving Bukharan Jewish community, to mark the anniversary of Druzhba, North America’s largest Russian-language Jewish interest magazine.

“I’m very proud to join you in celebrating 20 years,” said Meng, whose district includes communities such as Forest Hills, Rego Park, Kew Gardens that have the largest concentration of Mizrahi Jews outside of Israel. “’Druzhba’, I’m told, means to get along, to be together, and that is where we find our strength, and that is what we need in Congress and around the country as a whole.”

During her speech, Meng denounced incidents of anti-Semitic graffiti found at nearby PS 139 in Rego Park and praised the NYPD’s response. She said she would continue to advocate for the Jewish community.

“I’m happy to work with Congress to find ways to help synagogues and other non-profit institutions that help keep communities strong,” Meng said. “I look forward to another 20 years of Druzhba’s publication and the values it promotes.”