I am a resident of Council District 39.

As you will read in the Daily News op-ed coming out today, we have felt increasingly isolated and unsafe since October 7th.

Indeed, in 2023, the ADL recorded the highest number of antisemitic incidents in the U.S. in its history. Perhaps 2024 will break that record. The rising number of antisemitic hate crimes, vandalism, harassment and assault throughout NYC have been terrifying for Jewish communities, and particularly for Jewish students.

Council member Hanif's actions and inactions, including her inability to condemn Hamas -a U.S. designated terror organisation- is the equivalent of pouring salt into our wounds. She is one of only two council members who voted against #endjewhate. She refuses to condemn the murder and rape of brothers and sisters - to our face. She refuses to acknowledge Israel’s very right to exist. She has created an atmosphere of hatred, racism and fear in our beloved community.

She could have used this as an opportunity to build bridges, promote inter-faith dialogue and support her Jewish constituents, many of which, including myself, have family members that were murdered in cold blood on October 7th.
Instead, she has consistently used inflammatory, divisive and extremist rhetoric. Our kids do not feel safe in council member Hanif’s district.

We respectfully ask that Council-member Hanif be removed as Co-Chair of the City Council's Task Force to Combat Hate.