Local elected officials joined community residents during a gathering at the Bronx Jewish Center.

Elected Officials, Community Leaders Show United Front

By David Greene 

Bronx Voice

October 15, 2023 

BRONX - Nearly 100 area residents gathered with local Elected Officials and clergy members as “An Evening of Unity and Solidarity Torah” event was held after more than a 1,200 soldiers and civilians were slaughtered in Israel.

The gathering was held at the Bronx Jewish Center located at 900 Pelham Parkway. Speaking to many of the temple’s members, Rabbi Saadia Pewzner told members and guests, “As people there are many different approaches, many different reactions. With one reaction we always have to remember that mankind can do better.”

Pewzner added, “Seeing the diverse group in this crowd shows a very powerful sentiment from the Bronx that doesn’t have to do with the religion, it doesn’t have to do with race. We’re all part of the human race.”

Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark told those that had gathered, “It’s such a complicated world and for this to happen makes it so much more devastating because you see people there trying to work together and be together and coexist and it can happen and for Hamas to think that it’s okay to just do that and effect so many of us is just so wrong.”

Assemblyman John Zaccaro, Jr., (D-80) offered, “What took place this past weekend, the biggest and largest massacre of people who died at the hands of terrorists since the holocaust and it’s been said as I look at this room, I’m reminded that there is more that unites us than divides us.”

Rabbi Saadia Pewzner speaks to congregants of the Bronx Jewish Center, community residents and elected officials during a special gathering. -Photo by David Greene

Senator Gustavo Rivera (D-33) representing a portion of the East Bronx for the first time after district lines were redrawn, Rivera said, “I mourn and I grieve for the lost lives and the horrendous and barbaric terrorist attack on the Jewish people and knowing that I certainly do not have wisdom enough to provide any answers. What I can do and I will continue to do is stand in solidarity with my constituents and my sisters and brothers of the Jewish faith.”

An active member of the Israeli military was expected to speak but was unable to attend.