In the wake of a surge in antisemitic attacks across New York, Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the media on Monday to discuss the state’s efforts to combat hate crimes. Hochul, a Democrat, condemned the recent rise in violence targeting the Jewish community, calling it “painful” and “unacceptable” in a state known for its diversity and celebration of different cultures, religions, and viewpoints.
According to data from the New York City Police Department, there has been a 331 percent increase in antisemitic hate incidents since the October 7 terrorist attack on Israel. This alarming statistic has prompted the governor to take immediate action and increase resources to protect New Yorkers from hate-motivated violence.
During her press conference, Hochul announced a significant increase in funding for the state’s efforts, totaling $75 million. Of this, $50 million will go towards supporting local law enforcement in their efforts to combat hate crimes, while $25 million will be allocated to security grants. These measures aim to provide better protection for religious institutions and other potential targets of hate crimes.
Get out of NY before it’s too late. https://t.co/mMNs9rfGRG
— Dan Bongino (@dbongino) November 14, 2023
But the governor did not stop there. In light of the recent attacks, Hochul also touched on the state’s plan to monitor social media activity in order to “catch incitement to violence” and “direct threats to others.” She emphasized the importance of collecting data from social media platforms and announced efforts to counter online “negativity” and “hate speech.”
“No New Yorker should feel they have to hide any indications of what their religious beliefs are,” Hochul declared, emphasizing the need to ensure that everyone in the state feels safe and accepted. She also acknowledged the fear and anxiety that many members of the Jewish community have been experiencing and stated that they should not have to face it alone.
This is not the first time Governor Hochul has taken action against antisemitism. In October, she swiftly deployed State Police to protect synagogues, yeshivas, and mosques in response to the rise in attacks. She also visited students at Cornell University after the school’s Jewish Center received a mass shooting threat.
Hochul’s commitment to protecting her state’s Jewish community has garnered support from various groups and leaders. Following her press conference, she met with Jewish leaders, local law enforcement, and federal authorities to discuss additional measures to combat hate crimes and promote unity and diversity in New York.
As the state continues to grapple with the rise in antisemitic attacks, Governor Hochul’s determination to take action and protect her constituents is a promising step in the right direction. With increased funding and efforts to monitor and counter online hate speech, New York is sending a strong message against hate and intolerance.