Ahead of Jewish High Holidays, Governor Hochul Announces Distribution of Record $70 Million to Protect Community-Based Organizations Vulnerable to Hate Crimes and Attacks

State Senator Liz Krueger said, “New Yorkers have always been defined by our embrace of diversity, with people from all backgrounds living together cheek by jowl, mostly in peace. But while we rightly celebrate our track record, we can't ignore the times we fall short, and the current rise in hate crimes, particularly anti-semitic hate crimes, demands concrete action. So I'm very pleased that Governor Hochul will be distributing $70 million through the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grant program to help protect critical religious and community organizations across the state."

State Senator Shelley Mayer said, “I am grateful that Governor Kathy Hochul has directed $70 million to be distributed across the state to assist organizations and houses of worship in upgrading security and investing in measures that will protect them in the face of rising hate crimes, including the alarming rise in antisemitism. I will continue to ensure that New York State takes every step it can — from releasing additional security funds for schools and houses of worship, to requiring greater education about antisemitism and hate in our schools — to address antisemitism and other forms of hate. While we take these critical measures to ensure safety and security ahead of the High Holidays, we renew our vow to combat hate and prejudice, wherever it occurs. That must be our promise.”

Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said, “This historic investment by New York State reaffirms that hate has no place in New York. Each New Yorker deserves to live, worship, and gather without fear. We must continue taking actions to protect our vulnerable communities and institutions as hate crimes rise. We are especially committed to standing with Jewish New Yorkers, who continue to face a disproportionate share of reported hate crimes and I thank Governor Hochul for this investment.”

Assemblymember Charles D. Lavine said, “With a clear statistical rise in hate crimes, I commend Governor Hochul for her ongoing commitment to protecting New Yorkers regardless of their faith or ethnicity. The organizations on the receiving end of this funding must not live in fear, for the work they do is critical to stopping the scourge of hate we see throughout New York State and across the nation.”

Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, “Security cannot be an afterthought, especially at a time when Jewish New Yorkers and other communities targeted by hate are facing an alarming rise in hate crimes. This record state investment provides organizations with the resources they need to make meaningful and comprehensive security upgrades. I am proud to support these critical investments and grateful to Governor Hochul for making the safety and security of our community a priority.”

Assemblymember Steve Stern said, “During this time of increased antisemitism, I thank the Governor for her proactive efforts to ensure that worshippers are safe during the High Holidays and throughout the year,” Assemblyman Steve Stern said. “No one, of any faith, should be afraid to gather in prayer. Though it saddens me that it is needed, I welcome the heightened security and thank law enforcement for their vigilance and commitment to our communities. As part of this effort, the Securing Communities Against Hate Grants play an important role in ensuring that our religious organizations and houses of worship, community and civic centers, cultural museums, daycare centers and other nonprofit organizations at risk of hate crimes or attack because of their ideology, beliefs or mission can utilize to thwart those who seek to cause harm. As we enter this holy season of reflection and prayer, it is my fervent hope that these efforts will ensure peace, unity and safety for all New Yorkers.”

Assemblymember Sam Berger said, “Governor Hochul’s continued investment in protecting communities from hate is welcome, and these resources will help strengthen security where it is needed most. As antisemitic incidents continue to rise, we need stronger policies to deter these crimes and hold perpetrators accountable. Jewish New Yorkers deserve more than promises of safety. They deserve action.”

UJA-Federation of NY CEO Eric Goldstein said, “The need for a record level of security funding to protect Jews during the High Holidays underscores the troubling reality that antisemitism and threats against Jewish communities remain persistent and real. We are deeply grateful for Governor Hochul's unwavering commitment to our safety and security. Thanks to this vital investment, Jewish New Yorkers can come together to worship, celebrate our traditions, and observe the sacred holiday season with greater peace of mind."

Jewish Community Relations Council of New York CEO Mark Treyger said, “Governor Hochul has consistently shown that protecting New Yorkers from hate requires both resources and action. This historic $70 million investment will help houses of worship, schools and community institutions strengthen their security at a time of real concern. I know firsthand that the Governor has also worked closely with JCRC-NY, UJA-Federation and interfaith partners to advance strong statewide protections for safe access to houses of worship. She has been a strong and steady partner on both policy, funding, and just as importantly, she continues to show up for communities when it matters most.”

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