The Rabbinical Alliance of America — Igud HaRabbonim, representing over 950 American rabbis — commends Governor Andrew Cuomo for ordering and directing the State Police to increase patrols around Synagogues and religious centers to help ensure the safety of those observing Yom Kippur.
In a statement issued by his office, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo of New York said, “As members of the Jewish community gather Tuesday evening to begin the observance of Yom Kippur, I am directing the State Police to increase patrols around Synagogues and religious centers to ensure this sacred day is not disturbed by anyone seeking to spread division or fear.
“Recent anti-Semitic incidents, including an attack against a Synagogue in Williamsburg over the Rosh Hashanah holiday, underscore the need to protect against anti-Semitism and hatred of all kinds. At the same time, we must redouble our commitment to working together to root out bigotry and ignorance and to achieve the promise of an equal, safe and secure society for all.
“On behalf of all New Yorkers, I wish everyone a safe and meaningful holiday. Gmar Chatima Tova.”
Rabbi Mendy Mirocznik, executive vice-president of the Rabbinical Alliance of America, stated, “Once again, we commend Governor Andrew Cuomo for exercising leadership in proactively combating hate, bigotry and anti-Semitism by ordering the State Police to increase patrols around synagogues and religious centers. These affirmative steps will help to ensure that the Jewish community can peacefully observe Yom Kippur. Sending a loud and clear message that hate will not be tolerated is the only way that agitators will understand that their hateful conduct is not welcomed and condoned in New York State and that they will be held accountable if they engage in hateful conduct. We thank Governor Cuomo for taking the important step of reminding the Jewish community that, as Governor, he will not tolerate hate in New York State. We hope that other leaders across the state and country take similar actions to protect worshippers and send a message that hate will not be tolerated. We pray that the Almighty bless Governor Cuomo and other leaders who take action to thwart the rising tide of hate. We further pray that the Almighty, in the spirit of Yom Kippur, shall enlighten and inspire all those who possess hate to come to the realization that their conduct is wrong and that they shall be inspired with a feeling of love to change their ways and to productively use their energy to build a better society.”
May He who Makes Peace in Heaven Make Peace on this earth. May the world be eradicated from hate, bigotry and anti-Semitism and may we only know of love, peace and prosperity.