DATE: February 15, 2024
Agudath Israel of America supports this bill, which would designate the removal or threat of removal of religious articles as aggravated harassment in the second degree.
Across the country and specifically in New York State, there has been a drastic rise in antisemitism and other religious hate. Many of the hate incidents involved harassment by forcefully removing religious articles of clothing.
Orthodox Jews, both male and female, are required to wear specific religious garments; wearing this clothing is a fundamental expression of our religious identity. Forcibly removing these ritual garments infringes upon our rights under the Constitution’s First Amendment, including freedom of expression and religion.
During these hard times for the religious community, we are confident that passing this bill will help control the ongoing hate and bring those who commit it to justice.
Agudath Israel of America urges the legislature to support this bill.
Click HERE to download the memo.