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Agudath Israel's Rockland Office Holds Second Annual Legislative Meet and Greet

Agudath Israel's Rockland Office Holds Second Annual Legislative Meet and Greet
 by M.C. Millman

Agudath Israel of America's Rockland regional office held its second annual Legislative Meet and Greet yesterday, Tuesday, December 19. 

The reception celebrating the partnership between the community and elected officials was held at the Crown Plaza in Suffern.

Like last year, as reported by Rockland Daily here elected leaders, including legislators and personnel from the County government, town supervisors and trustees, village representatives, and superintendents, were in attendance, as well as federal, state, and county elected leaders. This year’s meet and greet was attended by over 150 community members, and elected officials from all levels of government. Many issues concerning the Orthodox community in Rockland County and the surrounding areas were discussed, including Yeshiva education, busing, and security funding.

"Tonight, we honor our representatives who have heeded the call to stand for truth, to protect the truth, and to champion truth," Rabbi Shragi Greenbaum, Agudah of Rockland Director, said while addressing attendees. "Fighting for the truth is a war that we, the citizens, and you, our representatives, are waging together...You have displayed the courage to stand up to the darkness, and we encourage you – don’t give up because your light of truth will ultimately spread."

Congressman Mike Lawler addressed attendees by first taking the opportunity to reaffirm his support not only for Israel and for the community and the 17th Congressional District, but he also reiterated his firm support of the rights of parents when it comes to education and choosing what is best for their children and stated on no uncertain terms that he will continue to do so. 

"I will continue to work with Agudah and other organizations that stand up for the Jewish community," the congressman said, "here in New York and around the country."

The congressmen went on to talk about his own educational experience and the profound impact that had on him, and the important role that education plays in combatting antisemitism across this country. 

"Last night, a great opportunity to bring together elected officials, community members, and Agudath Israel," the congressman shared exclusively with Rockland Daily, "to discuss ways to work together and improve education in this state so that parents ultimately have the final say in what they do for education their children educate and to show our support of school choice." 

"It was an honor to attend the Legislative Meet & Greet for the second year now prior to the 2024 legislative session in Albany," Senator Bill Weber tells Rockland Daily.  "I was grateful to be among friends and like-minded individuals, ready to continue my commitment to fighting the good fight against Antisemitism and for the most vulnerable in our society, especially those with disabilities. As a member of the New York State Senate Antisemitism Working Group and ranking member of the Senate Disabilities Committee, I'm uniquely positioned to do so."

"I was honored to join fellow elected officials and eminent community leaders at the Agudath Israel Legislative Meet and Greet," Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht shares with Rockland Daily. "We discussed how we all need to combat antisemitism, stand with Israel in its war against terror, and strengthen our Jewish community in Ramapo and throughout Rockland County. The event was a great opportunity to see Agudath's advocacy for the needs of the community and the strong relationships it has built at all levels of government."

"It was a pleasure to attend last night's event and to see a large majority of our local elected officials under one roof," Chestnut Ridge Deputy Mayor Chaim Rose shares with Rockland Daily. "It was especially heartening to hear firsthand from Congressman Lawler, whose supportive words both on the issue of education parental choice and on the horrifying increase of antisemitism, and to know that this is a Congressman who stands strong when it comes to embracing right and battling wrong and fighting for all his constituents, in all aspects."


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