New York City has launched its first municipal strategy to combat antisemitism, committing millions of dollars to hate-crime prevention, security, education and programs supporting Jewish communities.
The strategy comes as Jewish New Yorkers continue to face antisemitic incidents in the city. As per the report, Jewish residents account for about 12 percent of New York City’s population but have been the targets of roughly half of reported hate crimes.
The strategy includes $6.4 million in grants for community organizations working on hate-crime prevention and survivor support. The funding doubles the previous year’s allocation. The city is also providing $1 million to strengthen security at synagogues and other houses of worship.
“Antisemitism has no place in New York City. Jewish New Yorkers have helped build this city, shaped its culture and strengthened our communities for generations and they deserve to be safe, celebrated and protected by a city government that stands with them," Mamdani said in an announcement.
The plan includes $2.5 million for the Center for New Jewish Culture in Central Brooklyn. The city is also allocating $2 million to complete a Holocaust memorial in Queens.
The city’s plan calls for a coordinated approach involving agencies responsible for public safety, civil rights, education and hate-crime prevention. It identifies seven areas of focus, including preventing hate violence, addressing physical, verbal and online antisemitism, supporting survivors and protecting Jewish institutions.
The administration also plans to expand opportunities for New York City students to visit the Museum of Jewish Heritage and address discrimination complaints involving Jewish students.
A public-awareness campaign will promote information about the City Human Rights Law and how residents can report suspected discrimination. The campaign is expected to appear on LinkNYC and in other public spaces across the city.
Phylisa Wisdom, executive director of the Mayor's Office to Combat Antisemitism, noted that while antisemitism cannot be addressed through one single program or agency, the office will "continue listening to Jewish New Yorkers across the city and working alongside communities to make New York a place where everyone can live with dignity and without fear."
