Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently delivered a passionate speech at the Hampton Synagogue in Westhampton, addressing the ongoing issue of antisemitism and showing his unwavering support for Israel. This event, hosted by Rabbi Marc Schneier, drew attention not only for Cuomo’s powerful words but also for the presence of various prominent figures in attendance, including Mayor Eric Adams, Hillary Clinton, Marco Rubio, Lindsey Graham, and Eric Cantor.
During his speech, Cuomo did not shy away from condemning terrorist group Hamas, labeling them as a “genocidal terrorist organization dedicated to eradicating the Jewish people.” He emphasized that Hamas is not pro-Palestinian and lacks any genuine interest in supporting the Palestinian people. Cuomo’s founded organization, Never Again, Now! with Steven M. Cohen, has been actively running ads against Hamas, shedding light on the atrocities committed by this group.
Cuomo also addressed the troubling rise of antisemitism on college campuses, particularly in New York City. He highlighted the protests and harassment faced by Jewish students at institutions like NYU and Columbia, where criminal acts disguised as peaceful protests have escalated into hate crimes. Cuomo’s firm stance against these acts of discrimination emphasized the need for swift action to combat such behavior.
District attorney Alvin Bragg’s decision to drop charges against a mob that took over Hamilton Hall at Columbia University raised concerns among attendees. Cuomo expressed his disappointment in the lack of enforcement of the law, attributing the chaos in New York to the negligence in prosecuting hate crimes. He called for the appointment of a special prosecutor to handle such cases, underlining the importance of upholding the law to maintain order in society.
Despite the challenges posed by rising antisemitism, Cuomo emphasized the necessity of remaining strong and vigilant in the face of adversity. He acknowledged the painful reality that antisemitism may never fully disappear, but stressed the importance of collective vigilance to prevent its unchecked growth. Cuomo’s commitment to educating others about the history of Israel and the ongoing conflict reflects his dedication to combating ignorance and fostering understanding.
In East Hampton, residents gathered for a march advocating for the return of hostages taken from Israel on Oct. 7. The rally featured performances by rapper Kosha Dillz, who showcased songs like “Bring The Family Home” to support the cause. Notable figures in attendance included former US attorney general Michael Mukasey, Diva Moms co-founder Lyss Stern, and End Jew Hatred’s Michelle Ahdoot. Ahdoot’s group is set to hold an event in LA, featuring influential speakers like dietician Tanya Zuckerbrot and entrepreneur Samantha Ettus, demonstrating the widespread support for the fight against antisemitism.
Cuomo’s speech in the Hamptons underscored the urgent need to address and combat antisemitism in all its forms. His call for action, coupled with his unwavering dedication to educating others and standing up for justice, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity in the face of hatred and discrimination. The widespread support from the community further emphasizes the collective effort needed to ensure a future free from antisemitism and intolerance.