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Assemblyman Simcha EIchenstein Issues Statement Regard Recent Protests in Boro Park

Assemblyman Simcha EIchenstein Issues Statement Regard Recent Protests in Boro Park

What we have been witnessing on the streets of Boro Park over the last 48 hours does not reflect the values of our beloved community. I, like everyone in the community, am deeply saddened and outraged by the rhetoric and the draconian measures that Governor Cuomo announced just the other day. It is despicable and completely unacceptable. But violence is never the answer. Ever.

Over the last 48 hours, I personally have been in touch with leading legal experts, elected officials, community leaders and Rabbonim on determining our best path forward. I have always been guided by Daas Torah and that will not change with this current situation. In fact, I have been encouraged by leading Rabbonim to issue this statement, however painful it might be to do so. There is no one more disappointed than I am at this recent turn of events and I will leave no stone unturned in my quest to protect our constitutional rights. That is a bedrock principle of our democracy. And indeed, our shuls will remain open.

I fear, however, that this kind of behavior will do nothing to achieve that goal. I am asking, I am begging and I am imploring the handful of people within the community to end the violence. It will severely hamper our response. 

Yes, let’s continue to use our voices in demanding what no one can take away from us -- our ability to gather in prayer.  That is fundamental to us as a people and we will never compromise on that. But we must do this peacefully because that’s what makes us who we are.

I pride myself on being your representative in Albany, which comes with the tremendous responsibility of making a Kiddush Hashem every single day. Our community is so exceptionally special beyond belief. The amount of chesed we perform is the envy of so many across the state and indeed globally. We have much to be proud of.  As we navigate this difficult and very painful time, let us remind the world about everything that makes Boro Park so special.

I look forward to a very festive Shmini Atzeres and Simchas Torah. With my best wishes for a Gut Yom Tov and a refuah shleima for all those who are in need.


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