BABYLON, NY – The Town of Babylon recently issued a proclamation to declare May as Jewish Heritage Month. Deborah Peretz, the Northeast Regional Director of IsraelLINK at StandWithUs, attended the recent Town Board meeting and accepted the proclamation on the organization’s behalf.
“Judaism has such an important role not just across the Town of Babylon but throughout the country and world as well,” said Town of Babylon Councilman Anthony Manetta. “It is crucial that we continue to enhance the inclusivity of our diverse community. My wife and her family are Jewish, and when you witness the amount of antisemitism occurring in the world, you recognize the need for impactful action.”
The recognition of May as Jewish Heritage Month is one step in the Town of Babylon’s plans to enhance the comfortability, safety and celebration of Long Island’s Jewish population. The Town is also partnering with organizations championing Jewish identity and combating antisemitism, such as StandWithUs. As an international, non-partisan education organization that supports Israel and fights antisemitism, StandWithUs is working with the Town on awareness initiatives.
“As you know, antisemitism is on the rise,” said Deborah Peretz, who leads the educational branch of StandWithUs Northeast. “The best way to ensure our children have a safe future is through education, so thank you to the Town of Babylon for taking this important step.”
“We are proud to have a significant Jewish population and to partner with Jewish groups on important campaigns, especially combating antisemitism,” said Councilman Manetta. “As public officials, it is our role to make sure everyone knows bigotry is not tolerated and the Jewish community is welcome.”