New York State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt today announced the addition of Senator Rob Rolison to the Senate Republican Conference’s Anti-Semitism Working Group. The group, established in February 2023, meets with stakeholders across the state to make recommendations on ways to best address the alarming rise in anti-semitic incidents in New York State. 

The group is chaired by Senator Jack M. Martins, and includes Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Senator Joseph Griffo, Senator Peter Oberacker, and Senator Bill Weber as members. 

“Antisemitism continues to be on the rise and efforts to protect our Jewish neighbors continue to be a priority for our Senate Republican Conference. Our Antisemitism working group consists of Senators from all different areas of this state who have put forward common sense legislative proposals to battle antisemitism at all levels. I’m proud to add Senator Rob Rolison to the working group, who is a true defender of public safety and has demonstrated throughout his career he will always protect New Yorkers from hateful acts of violence,” said Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt.

“Antisemitism has no place in New York — or anywhere in the world. This hatred remains far too prevalent in our society, and we must stand united against antisemitism and all forms of hate wherever they exist. As the ranking member of the Crime Victims, Crime and Correction committee, we know that hate has consequences, and I’m proud to join the Senate Republican Conference’s Antisemitism Working Group as we explore solutions to make our state a safer, better place for all,” said Senator Rob Rolison.

Sadly, the threat of anti-semitism that led to the creation of the group in 2023 is still very real for members of the Jewish community. Just recently, slides and playground equipment at Gravesend Park in Brooklyn were vandalized with swastikas, the second time this park had fallen victim to anti-semitic attacks in as many days.

In March 2024, following a series of roundtable discussions, the working group released its report consisting of legislative recommendations to address anti-semitism in New York State. The Senate Republican Conference will continue to be a strong voice and advocate of the Jewish community and ensure that the freedom of religion remains intact.