MONTICELLO – In light of recent and ongoing anti-Semitic incidents in Sullivan County, and racially motivated violence throughout the country, the Sullivan County Human Rights Commission reminds both residents and visitors that “hate has no home here and will not be tolerated within our community.”
The commission said if it becomes aware of violations that fall within its jurisdiction, it will report and act on them in accordance with New York State’s Human Rights Law.
“We also call upon people throughout the county to speak up if you hear or witness any acts of harassment, violence, or discrimination,” commission members said. “We cannot let hate flourish amongst us, whether it is a remark made in passing, or a comment we read online; now is the time to call out this behavior before it grows and spreads.”
The commission said Sullivan County is “strong and unique because of its diversity. Your neighbors might not look like you, they might support different politicians than you do, they may worship differently than you, they might be undocumented, or speak a different language, but we are all part of the same community.”
Members said, “This is not a political issue; it is an issue of safety, compassion, and understanding. Take a stand with us in condemning hate speech, verbal harassment, and violence while uplifting diversity and inclusion within Sullivan County.”
The commission said if you, or anyone you know has been subject to discrimination in any form, contact the Sullivan County Human Rights Commission at (845)-807-0189.
Commission members are Martin Colavito, Chair; Judy Balaban, Vice Chair; Dayna Halprin, Bill Liblick, Kathie Aberman, Charles Davis, Samuel Encarnacion Sr., Shanita Artson and Michael Regan. The Executive Director is Dana Borowski.
