Local leaders visit Cambria Heights to unite against hate

First time Chabad visitors Alicia Hyndman, Clyde Vanel Donovan Richard John Liu participated in a letter-writing tradition, where notes asking for blessings are left at the grave of the Ohel. Courtesy of the office of Clyde Vanel.

Rachel Vick

Elected officials and community leaders from across Queens came together at Ohel Chabad-Lubavitch in Cambria Heights Dec. 30 to reflect on a recent series of anti-semitic events last week.

Assemblymembers Clyde Vanel, Alicia Hyndman, David Weprin and Daniel Rosenthal stood alongside the Chabad’s Rabbi Abba Refson and representatives from The Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula and the Jewish Community Relations Council.

“Once again, anti-Semitism and hate have no place in our society, in our country, and in the world” said Assembymember David Weprin. “We must stand together against each and every act of Anti-Semitism [and] continue our work combating hate in all forms.” 

The leaders praised members of the 105th and 113th precincts, who helped provide increased security in light of the attacks.

Speakers discussed solidarity across boundaries in the face of intolerance and emphasized the need for unity and action.

“There is something terribly wrong in the world when we see a growing hate in our communities and do not combat it with justice and action,” Hyndman said.  “There are people who unfortunately do not believe we all should have the privileges of basic human rights, religion and economic growth. We must bridge cultural gaps institutionally and protect each other righteously.” 

Also present were State Sens. John Liu, Leroy Comrie and James Sanders Jr., and Councilmembers Rory Lancman, Barry Grodenchik and Donovan Richards.