AJC Westchester Briefs State Lawmakers on Antisemitism

American Jewish Committee Westchester/Fairfield staff and lay leaders traveled to Albany last month to brief lawmakers on AJC’s landmark State of Antisemitism in America report, which found American Jews overwhelmingly believe antisemitism is a problem that is worsening, and more Jews feel less secure about their status in the U.S.

AJC was also recognized on the floors of the state Assembly and Senate in connection with a resolution honoring the 75th anniversary of Israel’s independence.

 The resolution in the Senate was sponsored by State Senator Shelley Mayer, D-Yonkers.

“New York has maintained an exceedingly strong bond with Israel, and we affirm that today,” Mayer said on the Senate floor April 26. “We are Israel’s loyal friend.”

Mayer said AJC’s presence in the state Capital was a reminder for New York State to “take every action it can to combat the scourge of antisemitism that continues to plague our nation.”

Earlier in the day, AJC Westchester/Fairfield Director Myra Clark-Siegel presented AJC’s antisemitism report to senators and assemblymembers.

“The reality is there is increased concern about antisemitism among American Jews, especially when the level of anti-Jewish hate has increased exponentially online and in social media,” Clark-Siegel said. “Fortunately, in New York we know we have unyielding allies at all levels of government who will stand up to hate in whatever form it takes.”