Queens, NY — Community leaders, candidates for public office, faith leaders, and civil rights advocates gathered yesterday for a Rally Against Hate, condemning hate-filled rhetoric by sitting New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino and calling for accountability and meaningful action to address all forms of hate.
The rally and press conference brought together a broad, multi-faith and multi-ethnic coalition, including Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Sikh, Black, Latino, and immigrant communities, standing united against bigotry in public office.
Former Congressman Jamaal Bowman and several candidates for state and federal office spoke about the harm caused when elected officials use or normalize hateful language, stressing that public service requires moral responsibility and respect for all constituents.
Faith leaders played a central role in the rally. Imam Safraz emphasized the ethical obligation to confront injustice, while Rabbi Rachel Goldenberg, representing Jews for Racial and Economic Justice and Malkhut, highlighted Jewish values of justice and solidarity. Hindus for Human Rights was also represented, reinforcing the cross-faith call to reject hate.
Community advocates and cultural voices, including Talib McClutchen, PhD, and Tyrik Washington, addressed the broader social impact of hate rhetoric and the importance of accountability through civic engagement and media.