On March 11, 2025, New York State Assemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst) joined his colleagues in the Assembly in a united call for increased funding to protect nonpublic schools, particularly in response to the alarming and undeniable surge in antisemitic attacks across the state.

Standing alongside Assemblyman Sam Berger, who is introducing critical legislation to secure additional security funding, Assemblyman Brown reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding Jewish students and institutions.

“We are here today because the safety of our children is non-negotiable,” said Assemblyman Brown. “Every single day, we see yet another act of antisemitism—whether it’s in the streets, in our neighborhoods, in schools or on college campuses. Jewish students are being harassed, intimidated and even physically attacked—not just by radical activists, but by faculty and administrators who either turn a blind eye or actively contribute to this toxic environment.”

Jewish students at universities across the state have faced increasing threats, with reports of physical altercations, verbal abuse and exclusion from campus activities simply because of their faith. “What’s happening on college campuses is unacceptable,” Brown continued. “Jewish students are being spat on, threatened and ostracized. And it’s not just higher education—our public schools have also seen a rise in antisemitic rhetoric.

When institutions fail to act, they become complicit in the hate that is spreading across New York.”

In the 2024 budget, $70 million was allocated to the Nonpublic School Safety Equipment (NPSE) program, which helps provide security personnel and equipment for nonpublic schools. However, given the growing threats, Brown and his colleagues are calling for an increase to $90 million in this year’s budget.

“These funds are essential,” said Brown. “Jewish schools and institutions have been forced to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on security just to keep students safe. This increase will allow for the hiring of more trained security personnel, the installation of advanced surveillance systems and other crucial measures to protect our communities.”

Assemblyman Brown and his colleagues are urging Speaker Carl Heastie and the Assembly to prioritize this funding in the budget negotiations.

“We cannot afford to ignore what is happening in our state,” Brown concluded. “History has shown us that when we turn a blind eye to antisemitism, it only grows. New York must send a clear message that Jewish lives matter, Jewish students deserve to be safe and we will take action to protect them.”