The ZOA’s Long Island region is rededicating its efforts to educating the community about Israel and combating anti-Semitism, wherever it occurs.
ZOA Long Island sponsored its first in a series of dynamic events, entitled, Anti-Semitism and Israel-Bashing on Campus: What You Need To Know and How We Can Fight It! The event was generously hosted by Mark and Sandy Gold in the beautiful enclave of Kings Point and had a great turnout.
Deborah Peretz, Regional Director of ZOA Long Island, welcomed the guests and introduced Dr. Alan Mazurek, Vice-Chair of ZOA’s National Board of Directors and Chairman of ZOA’s Long Island region. Dr. Mazurek explained why he has so enthusiastically supported the ZOA for more than 25 years. “The ZOA gets things done,” he said, giving example after example of the ZOA’s many achievements.
ZOA Vice-Chair Dr. Alan Mazurek speaking to ZOA Long Island guests
Susan Tuchman, Esq., Director of ZOA’s Center for Law and Justice, described the anti-Semitic harassment and intimidation that many Jewish students are facing on their college campuses, and the important legal tool – Title VI of the Civil Rights Act – that as a result of ZOA’s major campaign, is now available to help protect Jewish students. Susan also explained how this legal tool should now afford better protection to Jewish students, after the Office for Civil Rights recently reopened the ZOA’s Title VI case against Rutgers and decided that it will now use the U.S. State Department’s excellent definition of anti-Semitism when it assesses and decides Title VI cases. Susan gave parents and students several practical tips for responding to campus anti-Semitism when it arises. Those in attendance were riveted and asked many questions after the presentation, including about the anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, and about Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), one of the groups largely responsible for creating a hostile campus environment for Jewish students.
Susan Tuchman, Esq., Director of ZOA’s Center for Law And Justice, speaks about ZOA protecting students’ rights
Recently, Susan and Deborah visited North Shore Hebrew Academy High School in Great Neck to conduct an educational and interactive program for seniors preparing for college. The school is already encouraging these students to be proud Zionists who can make a strong case for Israel. Susan and Deborah provided seniors with important practical and legal tools for fighting anti-Semitism and attacks on Israel at their eventual campuses.
Both events were met with enthusiasm and success! We are looking forward to more outstanding Long Island programming.
Deborah Peretz, ZOA Long Island Executive Director
ZOA Long Island is excited to hear from you! For comments or questions please contact Deborah Peretz at dperetz@zoa.org. To donate please click here. Like us on Facebook and stay tuned for upcoming programming and events!