In response to anti-Semetic vandalism and assault in the Riverdale section of the Northwest Bronx, Rep. Jamaal Bowman, State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, State Assembly member Jeffrey Dinowitz, and Councilmember Eric Dinowitz issued the following statement Sunday:
“Over the weekend we received the horrific news of a string of hate crimes and vandalism at four local synagogues and places of worship in Riverdale. Our teams have been in close communication with community leaders and the NYPD in order to work towards the physical and psychological safety of the community. We are proud to represent Riverdale — a neighborhood that is inclusive, accepting, and loving. The rise in hate crimes towards Jewish people is alarming and deeply painful to see. Hate has no place here.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the hate crimes and vandalism that are occurring in Riverdale. No one should be attacked or living in fear because of their race, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. The threat towards synagogues and other Jewish institutions is real and we must treat these issues head on. Jewish people have been the victims of hate crimes and persecution for centuries, and this week’s events are a somber reminder that we must all be vigilant in weeding out antisemitism. Our hearts go out to everyone in our district who has been impacted by these hate crimes.
“Our offices are closely monitoring this situation. We thank Captain Emilio Melendez, all the NYPD investigators, the NYS Hate Crime Task Force, our colleagues in government and all the rabbis and community leaders who are involved in ensuring that justice is served. This is a true demonstration of unity and is an example of the resilience of Riverdale. We urge that anyone with relevant information reach out to the 50th precinct. If you see a crime being committed, call 911 immediately. We will continue to unite as a community to make sure it is loud and clear that hate has no place here.”
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