Just over 100 days since Hamas’s brutal attack on Israel, representatives from the Jewish Federations of Dutchess, Orange, and Ulster Counties presented Rep. Pat Ryan and his staff with a thank-you letter, with nearly 400 local signatures, for his ardent support of Israel’s right to exist, his ongoing fight against antisemitism, and his continued efforts to free hostages still held by Hamas, including American citizens and Hudson Valley residents. The Jewish Federations peacefully presented their thank-you letter at Rep. Ryan’s Kingston office, which was besieged by anti-Israel protestors nearly two weeks ago.
“We’ve seen the increasingly threatening anti-Israel protests across this country, and we came today with an important message: Just because an opinion is voiced loudly does not mean it’s accurate or representative of us all,” said Karen Hochhauser, Executive Director, Jewish Federation of Dutchess County. “We represent hundreds of Hudson Valley constituents who proudly stand with Congressman Ryan and thank him for his continued support of Israel, as well as his work to combat antisemitism in the Hudson Valley.”
“The last 100 days have been extraordinarily difficult for Jews around the world. We’ve watched neighbors cheer the murder of Jews, deny that the mass rape of Israeli women even occurred, and show no concern at all for the American citizens still held hostage,” said Wendy Cedar, Executive Director, Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County. “With Orange County native, Judith Haggai, brutally murdered by Hamas, very few have stepped up to express their support for the Jewish community. We are lucky to have a Congressman who stands up to the persistent antisemitism in the Hudson Valley and around the country. Thank you Congressman Ryan for clearly and forcefully fighting alongside the Jewish people against this overwhelming current of hate and violence.”
“Our heart breaks for the people of Israel, who have experienced unspeakable anguish, and I firmly believe Congressman Ryan’s message is one we should all get behind. Bring the hostages home, remove Hamas, and rededicate ourselves to a lasting peace.,” said Rondavid Gold, President, Jewish Federation of Ulster County. “That’s what we should be focused on, not calls for a unilateral ceasefire, which would allow Hamas to commit the horrors of October 7th over and over again. Congressman Ryan is a true champion of the Hudson Valley Jewish community, and today’s outpouring of support proves that.”
Earlier in the month, more than a dozen protestors disrupted a swearing-in ceremony of Gardiner elected officials officiated by Pat Ryan to demand that the congressman immediately and unconditionally support a permanent ceasefire and no military aid to Israel.