“In the past several days, our Jewish communities across New York have been shaken by deeply troubling acts of violence and intimidation. On Jan. 28, a vehicle was driven into the entrance of the Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters at 770 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn during a time when congregants were gathered nearby to observe a significant religious occasion. Fortunately, no one was physically injured, but the damage to this sacred place of worship and community reverberated far beyond Crown Heights. Law enforcement is investigating the incident as a possible hate crime.

“Just one day earlier, on Jan. 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, a 32-year-old Bukharian Rabbi was violently assaulted on a street in Queens by an individual who reportedly shouted antisemitic remarks before attacking him. The Rabbi was treated for his injuries, and the suspect has been charged with hate crime assault and related offenses.

“These two acts, occurring in such close proximity to one of the most solemn days in Jewish and global history, are not only cowardly and unacceptable, they are also reminders that antisemitism and hatred still persist in our communities. Violence against people because of their faith or identity has no place in New York, in our state or in our nation.

“I stand in solidarity with the victims, with survivors of the Holocaust and with Jewish communities throughout New York who continue to contribute to the cultural, social and economic fabric of our state. We must confront and condemn hate in all its forms and work collaboratively to ensure every place of worship and every individual is safe, respected and free from fear.I am also urging the Governor and my colleagues in the Legislature to strengthen protections for houses of worship, religious schools, and clergy members, and to ensure security resources and coordination are in place so New Yorkers can practice their faith freely and without intimidation.”