Search Results for “hikind”

MAILBAG FROM A YESHIVA ADMINISTRATOR: The Chillul Hashem Created By Dov Hikind By The Boro Park Protest

February 19, 2025 12:23 am 27 Comments

As an administrator of a school located on 50th St. between 13th and 14th Avenues (there are 3 large schools on that block), I was intimately involved in the askonis over the last three days. We administrators were terrified of the protest taking place in front of our schools at the same time that we dismiss our students. There are over 1000 girls that are dismissed on this block on a given day. Upon the attention this event generated, the initial location grew very concerned and no longer wanted this event to take place at their facility. We were working closely with the Boro Park leaders and askonim, as well as daas Torah, and the difficult decision was made to cancel this event. Having said that, a new location, 14 blocks away was booked. All perspective attendees who pre-registered were called and notified of the new location. All was going well. On social media event was canceled, but in reality the event was moving forward. Then came known opportunist Dov Hikind, without consulting anyone, and decided it was HIS duty to announce to the world the new location. Within minutes the pro Palestinian protesters updated their flyers and as a result, the pro Israel supporters immediately followed suits. From here on out all hell broke loose, and there was no looking back. I know there will be countless comments and blame going around in WhatsApp groups, but as someone with firsthand knowledge, Dov Hikind tweeting out the new location was the one action that could’ve prevented all of this, but unfortunately, he couldn’t help himself because he needs to tweet. Sad. Name withheld upon request. The views expressed in this letter are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of YWN. Have an opinion you would like to share? Send it to us for review. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

WATCH: Dov Hikind Leads Boro Park Protest, Chanting ‘Am Yisroel Chai’

February 18, 2025 8:23 pm No Comments

WATCH: Former Democratic New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind at the protest in Boro Park scaring the Palestinians away and screaming “Am Yisroel Chai!”

Ex-Democrat Hikind, JDL Alum, to Attend Boro Park Event

February 17, 2025 5:56 pm 2 Comments

🔥 Former Democratic New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind—who spent three decades supporting liberal policies before switching to the Republican Party after retirement—is also a former member of the Jewish Defense League (JDL). He is looking forward to attending Tuesday’s event in Boro Park.

WATCH: Democrat Dov Hikind Tells Trump To “Move On” And “Support DeSantis”

November 15, 2022 6:30 pm 18 Comments

Former NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind went on Fox News to blame Donald Trump for the recent election results, and called on the former President to “move on”, and that Trump should endorse DeSantis for President. “We were all disappointed looking at the bigger picture. What happened was supposed to be great victories all over the country,” Hikind told Fox News’ Steve Doocy. “I would say to the former president, who I supported and he did great things during his term, I would say to him, move on. A couple of days before the election, he tells the country he has a major announcement. Donald Trump, it was not about you. It was about the candidates that were running and you took away from them,” said Hikind. “There’s no question that he hurt candidates all over the country.” “Donald Trump, you had your opportunity. You hurt your party that you love, and your country in this election,” he said Hikind is a lifelong Democrat, who for more than 20 years endorsed liberals and Democrats in nearly every single election, and who voted with his fellow Democrats in Albany to pass countless liberal bills and laws. Hikind suddenly jumped ship to start endorsing Republicans when Trump ran for office in 2020. But Hikind had previously flip flopped on Trump. In 2016 Hikind was expected to endorse Trump when he changed his mind after the notorious tapes leaked where Trump bragged about assaulting women. See this from a Forward article in 2016: “When we said before I am going to represent the Republican side, I would’ve loved to — if I had a Republican. Donald Trump is not a Republican. He is running on the Republican line. I wanted to support him. I was hoping as the weeks went by that he would keep his mouth closed and stop saying the things that he has said, but he can’t change, and I am really concerned,” he continued, telling the audience that he would write in House Speaker Paul Ryan, whom he praised as a “mensch.” “He was a very difficult choice from the beginning,” he said, citing the Republican nominee’s mocking of a disabled New York Times reporter and his lewd statements about women. “His behavior is so offensive, so horrible, so degrading and every other adjective you can think of.” He also blasted Trump as lacking knowledge about the issues that matter. “Being ignorant is sort of a positive thing for him,” Hikind said. In 2020 Hikind then went on to give Trump a full throated endorsement. Time will tell what Hikind will do if Trump is a real candidate in 2024. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

MAILBAG: An Open Letter and Warning to the Jewish Community and Dov Hikind

October 28, 2021 11:30 am 26 Comments

Dov Hikind said he’s going to vote for Inna Vernikov even though he’s registered to vote in Nassau County. Dov Hikind is no longer a Brooklyn resident. Dov Hikind sold his Brooklyn house, moved to Nassau County years ago, and registered to vote in Woodmere. Hasn’t there been enough criminal prosecution of frum guys already. Dov Hikind is in the Jewish Vues and the Flatbush Jewish Journal proudly standing next to Chaim Deutsch who’s reporting to Federal prison this Friday. Why must they flaunt the authorities after all the damage they did to our community. Dov Hikind must apologize for threatening to violate election law by voting in a district he’s never lived in. Government authorities pay attention to things like this and we can’t afford another Chillul Hashem in our community. For the sake of himself and the Jewish community, Dov Hikind must apologize immediately and explain this as a misunderstanding or whatever it is. We don’t need news headlines of another frum politician being sentenced to prison. In this week’s Jewish Vues Inna Vernikov says “the two most respected frum politicians in Flatbush are obviously Chaim Deutsch and Dov Hikind.” Inna Vernikov has no ties to the Flatbush community besides when she played a key role in the Yoni Hikind campaign so it’s no surprise she made an off the wall statement like that. We are fortunate to have Councilman Kalman Yeger, Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein and Senator Simcha Felder representing us in government. They’re not voting for her but that doesn’t mean she has to insult them and the community. Inna must immediately apologize as well, her comment is disgraceful and shows how out of touch she is. Chaim Silverman – Flatbush NOTE: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of YWN. DO YOU HAVE AN OPINION YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE POSTED ON YWN? SEND IT TO US FOR REVIEW. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

PUBLIC OUTCRY: Dov Hikind’s Public Disgrace Of Rabbonim — WHY ARE WE SILENT?! [MAILBAG]

October 26, 2021 5:04 pm 48 Comments

By now voters in Flatbush are aware that there is a city council race for the 48th District between Steven Saperstein and Inna Vernikov. Saperstein, the winner of the Democratic primary, is a well-known individual, who ran previously as a moderate republican, has campaigned gracefully and respectfully, never attacking his opponent with negative mailers or ads. He’s been endorsed by respected communal organizations like the FJCC and Sephardic Federation and earned the support of the Police and Fire unions because his views and positions are really conservative. It’s important to note that Saperstein only ran as a Democrat so he could sit with the majority in the City Council and better deliver for his constituents. It will prove to be a smart decision, and a win for the entire district should he get elected. As for Inna, Flatbush residents have been bombarded on a near daily basis with her negative mailers attacking Mr. Saperstein as some sort of AOC left wing progressive. These attacks are false and ridiculous. After all, Saperstein previously ran twice as a Republican. But to some candidates the truth simply doesn’t matter, anything and everything is used to smear an opponent in order to win. Unfortunately nobody should be surprised. The last time our community was inundated with this kind of deplorable filth was the forgettable Yoni Hikind- Kalman Yeger City Council race, four years ago. The common thread between those two nasty campaigns? Dov Hikinds was involved then and he is now. Inna has entrusted Mr. Hikind to run her election. But it might as well be Hikind running now. Political observers see Hikind’s aggressive tactics and attacks on Saperstein as a way for him to regain political power through his surrogate, Inna. His personal attacks on Saperstein have escalated as the campaign heats up and voters are realizing just how absurd it would be to send a firebrand Republican to the Democratically dominated City Council to represent us. Saperstein to his credit has been turning the other cheek and I’ve been impressed by his focus and unwillingness to go negative. But the relentless negative ads against Saperstein continue in this week’s newspapers and mailers and when you see them, know who is responsible, none other than Dov Hikind. Voters should soundly reject this negativity on Election day. Mr. Hikind though has crossed a line recently and that’s why I’m writing this. Despite running one vulgar ad after another – Dov’s latest anti Saperstein video “demands” that community members call leading Rabbonim in Flatbush to confirm that Mr. Saperstein actually took pictures with them. As if the pictures Saperstein is using were photo-shopped from thin air. Hikind stoops even lower by sharing the Rabbonim’s private phone numbers on the video, with subtitles urging people to call them. Really Dov? People should call and harass Harav Hagoan R’ Yisroel Reisman Shlita to inquire if he’s lying? Frankly speaking we’ve rarely seen this kind of reckless chutpzah before and this is my protest for Kovod Hatorah. But this is hardly the first time Dov has used Rabbonim and Gedolim for his own political agenda. In another brazen Chutzpah, it has been confirmed that on a random day a few weeks ago, the bell rang at the home of a revered Rosh Yeshiva and Gadol. Waiting at the

HIKIND CLAIM: NYPD Officer Cursed Out Boro Park Jew – But No Victim Or Officer’s Name Is Known

January 14, 2020 10:44 am 10 Comments

While YWN has been at the forefront of reporting nearly every single anti-Semitic incident, one “incident” this morning is raising lots of eyebrows. In a press release submitted to YWN, Dov Hikind says that the following occurred: This past Friday night, a Hasidic father and his 17-year old son were walking home after spending time at a tisch, a rabbinical event in Boro Park. As they were crossing the street at 15th Avenue and 50th Street a police car with its lights on drove by and the police officer who was driving the car rolled his window down and yelled “you [EXPLETIVE REMOVED]’ Jews” at them. The officer laughed and drove off, leaving them shocked and stunned. The family reached out to Dov Hikind, founder of Americans Against Antisemitism, on Sunday evening to ensure this matter is addressed in a professional and swift manner. The family was terrified but they’re willing to come forward so this antisemitic act is addressed and the individual involved is held responsible for his actions.” This allegation has since made its way to the NY Post and other news outlets. But YWN has confirmed with multiple sources that on Motzei Shabbos, this “victim” called a prominent Boro Park Jewish community activist and told him the story. The activist said it needs to immediately be brought to the attention of the NYPD’s 66th Precinct, and advised the man to go there and make the complaint. But for reasons unknown, the victim decided otherwise, and instead chose to go to Dov Hikind. Additionally, YWN has confirmed with high-ranking NYPD Brass, that as of this posting (Tuesday morning 10:45AM), not only does the NYPD have no idea who the victim is, they also have have no idea who the alleged officer is, or any information about him. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

AOC Apologizes and Unblocks Hikind On Twitter Following Lawsuit

November 4, 2019 10:45 am 5 Comments

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez reached a settlement in a lawsuit filed by former Brooklyn Assemblyman Dov Hikind, who accused the lawmaker of violating the First Amendment by blocking him on Twitter. In a statement, Ocasio-Cortez said on Monday that she had “reconsidered” her decision to block Hikind from her account. She conceded that Hikind, an outspoken conservative, was exercising his constitutionally-protected right to free speech by criticizing her on Twitter. The announcement, first reported by the New York Post, comes just one day before Ocasio-Cortez was scheduled to testify in federal court in Brooklyn. “Mr. Hikind has a First Amendment right to express his views and should not be blocked for them,” she said. “In retrospect, it was wrong and improper and does not reflect the values I cherish. I sincerely apologize for blocking Mr. Hikind.” The lawmaker, who has 5.7 million Twitter followers, previously defended her decision to block about 20 Twitter users from her personal account because she argued that their online behavior amounted to harassment. Hikind told YWN the following in a statement: “A resolution has been reached in the First Amendment case I brought against congresswoman Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez and she will be unblocking me,” said Hikind. “I’ll be responding to the release of the agreement details, and the apology from Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez. But I can tell you that it’s a big victory for freedom of speech! The consequences of this case are much farther reaching than my own Twitter account, because it affirms the Constitutional right of American citizens to directly petition those in positions of power without the threat of being shut out from conversations that affect everyday life.” “You’ll also hear from our legal team who brought this case forward and to a successful resolution. They deserve thanks and praise from free speech advocates everywhere.” *****SIGN UP NOW —- GET YOUR NEWS IN RECORD TIME***** Make sure you are one of the more than 22,000 that signed up to YWN WhatsApp Status to receive news in live time. Click this link – or send a message to 1-888-4-YW-NEWS (888-499-6397) – to see our status posts***** (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

LAWSUIT: Hikind Sues AOC After She Blocked Him On Twitter

July 9, 2019 7:41 pm 15 Comments

Former Democratic New York Assemblyman Dov Hikind filed a lawsuit against Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. in federal court on Tuesday for blocking users on Twitter based on their personal viewpoints, following a federal appeals court ruling earlier in the day barring President Trump from doing the same. The complaint, obtained by YWN, seeks an injunction against Ocasio-Cortez, a declaration that she violated the First Amendment and an award of attorney’s fees. The complaint focuses on Ocasio-Cortez’s popular and active @AOC account, with more than 4.6 million followers. The following is a statement given to YWN by Hikind: “It’s happened. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has blocked me on Twitter yesterday apparently because my critique of her tweets and policies have been too stinging. Just today the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a ruling that elected officials cannot block individuals from their Twitter accounts, thereby setting a precedent that Ocasio-Cortez must follow. Twitter is a public space, and all should have access to the government officials on it. It’s unclear if Ocasio-Cortez is aware of this ruling or not, but either way, I have decided, after speaking with my legal counsel, to initiate a lawsuit against her for blocking me and a host of other public figures. My gracious lawyers at Weinstein & Weinstein LLP have filed suit in the Federal Courts of the Eastern District of New York so as to remedy the situation. Ocasio-Cortez has no right shutting a citizen out of her public statements or prevent me from seeking redress or petitioning her directly. Ocasio-Cortez is acting cowardly and should be ashamed of her attempts to silence me. I’ve done nothing but address her ignorance and disregard for the truth. She constantly brags about the millions of followers she has but is afraid of my speech. She is a hypocrite. I’m looking forward to the day where she has to unblock me so that free speech in America is guaranteed even when it offends!” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Calls On Krakow Jewish Leadership To Re-Open Izaak Synagogue Without Delay

July 4, 2019 8:45 am No Comments

In light of the recent news from Krakow whereby the Chabad-rub Izaak Synagogue was shut down by the Jewish Religious Community of Krakow (Gmina) – which is run by members of the same family, Tadeusz Jakubowicz and his daughter Helena – the synagogue’s rabbi reached out to me for help so I’m calling upon Krakow’s Jewish leadership to do the right thing and re-open the synagogue until their dispute is settled by the courts. It’s unconscionable that they would close the one and only synagogue in all of Krakow that Jews actually use to pray in daily, and that hosts the only kosher fast-food spot. And to make matters worse, they posted five armed, menacing security guards with dreadfully sinister face-masks to intimidate congregants from even approaching. Every day this synagogue, which withstood the Nazi atrocities, is closed is a travesty and tragedy for the entire Jewish people. Jews around the world are calling on the Jakubovics to settle this quickly, or at least open the synagogue until the dispute is resolved. They are, after all, leaders of the Jewish community to represent the Jewish interest. How could it be in the Jewish interest to keep the one functioning synagogue of Krakow closed? My sincere hope is that they recognize their error and open the synagogue before Shabbos so the congregation can pray. In the meantime, I will continue working with Rabbi Gurary and the Polish Jewish communities to resolve this issue for good. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Heads on “Kippa Solidarity Trip” to Germany

May 28, 2019 8:00 pm 2 Comments

In light of recent events and pronouncements coming from Germany that Jews should consider not wearing a kippah or being visibly Jewish, Dov Hikind has left NY on a short trip to Frankfurt “simply to show solidarity with the Jews of Germany by proudly wearing my kippah and distributing some to others”. In a statement to YWN, Hikind said “Let the message be clear: when Jews are told they can’t be visibly Jewish in a supposedly democratic country the only acceptable response is to be proudly, visibly Jewish. Germany can tell its Jews they are no longer welcome, but it can’t have it both ways by claiming to be a tolerant home for Jews while also tolerating antisemitism to a level where living life as Jew is unbearable. I will be meeting with Jewish community members and officials, but my only goal is to be present on the ground to push back against an antisemitism that sent my parent’s families to be gassed at death camps the last time it went unchecked. “Never Again” means we will not cower in fear, but will rather double-down on being even more visibly, proudly Jewish.” [Germany Warns Jews Against Wearing Kippahs – US Ambassador Says “WEAR THEM PROUDLY!”] About to take off on a Kippah Solidarity Trip to Germany – it’s times like these when Jews need to double down on their pride. Will be broadcasting from Germany with my Kippah so that the message is clear: Jews are here and proud. pic.twitter.com/uX30vPzNYB — Americans Against Antisemitism (@AmericansAA) May 28, 2019 https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx-rUwgnW8G/ (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

DUELING TIMES SQUARE PROTESTS: Hikind Against Rep. Omar, Neturei Karta in Support [VIDEOS & PHOTOS]

May 23, 2019 9:10 pm 13 Comments

Hundreds of supporters for the fight against antisemitism congregated in Times Square on Monday to call for Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s removal from the Foreign Affairs committee for her repeated use of antisemitic tropes and her recent support for Hamas while they were firing rockets on Israeli civilians. As expected, several dozen Neturei Karta folks gathered across the street to support the anti-Semite. They held up anti-Israel propaganda, while several young boys were seen burning the Israeli flag. Said to Dov Hikind, who was one of the featured speakers at the gathering: “What’s become clear is that Omar, and along with her, Rashida “the Holocaust gives me a comfortable feeling” Tlaib, are mainstays in the Democratic party, and no amount of hand washing will wipe away their stain and “taint” of antisemitism. Leaders Pelosi and Schumer, all of the Democratic presidential hopefuls, and certainly, above all others, the host of Jewish congressmen and women who have remained silent or outwardly supported and reinforced these two scathing antisemites, are collectively responsible for what they produce. I can tell you this. We will not be silent; nor will we stop fighting for Ilhan’s removal from the committee and the casting out from the Democratic party of unabashed antisemites who masquerade as anti-Zionists, neatly cloaking themselves as liberal humanitarians. We see right through them, and we’re moving full force ahead.” Hundreds of Americans gathered in Times Sq to send @thedemocrats a msg: @Ilhan Must Go! Off the FA Cmte! If she isn’t removed, & Jewish Reps remain silent their seats won’t be safe in 2020. Silence is complicity & the Dems seem to have placed their bet on the antisemitic horses! pic.twitter.com/KbdarvT3Bs — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) May 21, 2019 Self awareness level zero. She's referring to herself – the protestors are tired of being hated. pic.twitter.com/Lu61vChESA — Daily Wire (@realDailyWire) May 23, 2019 https://www.instagram.com/p/BxvHz3FA_B2/ (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

SEE IT: Facebook Censors Dov Hikind Video Exposing Rep. Tlaib’s Outrageous Claim About Palestinians and the Holocaust

May 14, 2019 10:45 pm 9 Comments

After Rep. Rashida Tlaib’s remarks on how she felt “comforted” about her Palestinian ancestors’ role during and after the Holocaust set off a firestorm (as expected), Dov Hikind put out a video to correct her distortions. Without warning prior, or notice thereafter, Hikind woke up today to discover that Facebook had removed the video (see it on Twitter). Antisemites like @rashidatlaib have a long track record of distorting Jewish history just as the Nazis did – but only Rashida lies, gets called out, and then blames her critics for her lies! I’m glad we all saw right through her, but she’s still in Congress! pic.twitter.com/68HosSyrxo — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) May 13, 2019 It’s outrageous to think that for a video that did nothing but directly quote Rashida Tlaib along with the famous video of Hitler Y”MS meeting with the Palestinian Mufti as they discussed their ‘shared problem of the Jews’, Facebook censored Hikind and shut down his right to free speech. It comes as no surprise, as we’ve recently seen Facebook and other social media sights de-platform voices that don’t jive with their far-Left outlook and agenda. But this should be unacceptable, particularly as there was no mention of it. It simply disappeared. The interesting thing is that other accounts re-posted Hikind’s video and the video was not (yet) removed. Below, see screenshots of a Whatsapp message showing that the post was live on Facebook with a live link, and preview of the video at the original link, which has now been removed.

WATCH: Hundreds Protest Outside The NY Times After Anti-Semitic Cartoons; Hikind, Dershowitz Deliver Speeches

April 30, 2019 4:05 pm 9 Comments

Several hundred people gathered on one day’s notice in Midtown Manhattan at The New York Times office building to send the publication a strong message: Jews will not tolerate the mainstreaming and globalization of antisemitic hatred in any form be it overt or disguised as cartoon social commentary. The Times on Monday published a cartoon of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu descending a mountain with a selfie-stick in one hand and a stone tablet with a Star of David in the other hand — just after saying it was “deeply sorry” for publishing a cartoon of Netanyahu as a dachshund (dog) wearing a Star of David collar and leading a blind and skullcap-wearing U.S. President Donald Trump. Speakers included Dov Hikind, Professor Alan Dershowitz and radio talk show host Sid Rosenberg. Dershowitz suggested there was something deeply wrong with the “newspaper of record” which spends so much of its space every day attacking Israel, the Jewish State. [Related: Why Jews (and others) Should Boycott the NY Times – An Editorial] Hikind sent the following statement to YWN: “Any time Israel defends itself, whether it’s on the borders of Gaza against Hamas, the borders of Lebanon against Hezbollah or along the Syrian border against Iran, the number one critic of the people of Israel defending themselves is, and has for the longest time been, The New York Times. Shame on them! Between 1939 and 1945 there were over 30,000+ articles on the Times’ front pages, and more than 18,000 of those were about World War II. But only 26 (26 for G-d’s Sake!) were about the Holocaust! 26 were about our people being gassed in Auschwitz and murdered all over Europe! They couldn’t find any more space. The Nazis were the radical Right and they were to blame then. What does the liberal far-Left New York Times have as an excuse in 2019? They have now joined Congresswomen Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib in mainstreaming antisemitism in the ridiculous guise of anti-Zionism. The Times’ history of distorting the news about the Jewish people the world over continues in the present and seems to be going strong and unabated. Enough is enough! Enough Jewish blood spilled at synagogues in Poway & Pittsburgh. Enough blatant and virulent anti-Semitism from the @nytimes! Enough naked Anti-Semitism from @IlhanMN! Enough complicit silence by leaders of the Democratic Party! Enough!! pic.twitter.com/t9JyaiBQKz — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) April 30, 2019 Let us not be surprised, then, when the next round of atrocities against Jews are overlooked and downplayed by the Times and others on the Left, while the Right continues to stamp out antisemites from amongst its ranks. Shame, Shame, nothing but Shame on The New York Times and their kind!” Alan Dershowitz addresses The NY Times protest. pic.twitter.com/1NFhivB0cU — David Marcus (@BlueBoxDave) April 29, 2019 Protest outside The NY Times offices. pic.twitter.com/QZgABVRCsM — David Marcus (@BlueBoxDave) April 29, 2019 Huge crowd in front of the @nytimes building in NYC sending a clear message: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! pic.twitter.com/xEuTs8tMgs — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) April 29, 2019 SILENCE IS DEADLY: Join me in loudly protesting against the @nytimes for publishing a vile antisemitic cartoon only days before a terror attack against Jews! NYC – Today – 5:30pm @ The NY Times building on 8th Ave and 41 St. pic.twitter.com/xBd4Yp0RdL — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) April

Jewish Democrat Dov Hikind Calls Bernie Sanders “A Danger To Jews And Democrats” Who Wants Terrorists To Vote From Prison

April 28, 2019 8:00 pm 8 Comments

As presidential campaign season gets into higher gear, candidates are starting to pile up the gaffes, or rather, expose the true nature of their proposals. Bernie Sanders, a Jewish candidate for the Democratic nomination for president in 2020 is the latest to show his cards. “First, after Israel reelected the formidable Benjamin Netanyahu, instead of accepting the will of the Israeli people all Bernie could do was lament the win by calling the new government “racist,” signaling his unwillingness to work with Netanyahu should he ever become president,” said former New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind. “Then, as if that weren’t ridiculous enough, in a town hall, Sanders promoted the idea that murderers and terrorists like the Tsarnaev brothers who bombed the Boston Marathon, killing four and injuring scores more, should be able to vote from prison! If that isn’t absurd then it shows you how far Left the Democrats have gone. Either way it should concern every American and Jew that there’s a candidate seeking votes among those who’ve taken innocent lives. As long as the Democrats are silent on the antisemitism of Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib while calling Israel “racist” and getting cozy with murderers, Jewish Democrats have no choice but to take a vacation from the party in 2020.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Condemns Facebook For Allowing Assassination Threats Against The President, VP

February 27, 2019 8:00 am No Comments

Dov Hikind, former New York state assemblyman and current Chairman of the Coalition for a Positive America, is demanding that Facebook apologize and take action after allowing calls to assassinate President Trump and Vice President Pence to be broadcast on their platform. On February 18, DC Comics artist Trevor Von Eeden, a Bronx, NY resident, posted a message to his 2200 Facebook friends, suggesting that what would be “great in America” was if someone made history with “the very first Presidential double assassination ever.” One of Hikind’s constituents flagged the post for being in violation of Facebook’s “community standards” for promoting violence and contacted the social media giant. Three days later, Facebook replied to the complainant that they had reviewed the post and that it was found to not have violated Facebook’s community standards. SEE ORIGINAL POST HERE SEE FACEBOOK RESPONSE HERE SEE USER RESPONSE HERE “When I saw the exchange from Facebook, I was speechless,” said Hikind. “Here is a man calling for the actual assassination of President Trump and Vice President Pence on Facebook, and Facebook is okay with this? It would be one thing to say they didn’t know about it but they’ve ‘reviewed’ the post and say it’s fine? Shocking! Facebook’s senior management needs to address this immediately! “And is DC Comics – the home of Batman and Superman – also ok with an artist of theirs, who attaches his name to their trademarks, encouraging a nut to shoot at the President and Vice President because that person will achieve, in his words, ‘everlasting fame and the undying gratitude of an entire nation’? “It’s bad enough that someone would write something like this, but we know the world is full of cranks and deranged people. The real question is how can Facebook allow this violent speech against a sitting president and vice president to remain? Would they do so if it was, say, Bernie Sanders who one of their clients was suggesting should be assassinated? Or Senator Gillibrand? Is it only certain elected officials? And does Facebook now allow for calls of violence against certain races, too? What are the parameters for who Facebook says can be targeted? Facebook has some explaining to do.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind: 11 Jews Were Murdered in Pittsburgh; In Brooklyn, Jews Are Beaten on a Regular Basis

February 8, 2019 8:20 am 13 Comments

American Jews hold the distinction (according to the FBI) of being the most targeted minority group with hate crimes. 11 Jews were murdered not long ago in a Pittsburgh synagogue and that shocked America. But in a little enclave in Brooklyn, Crown Heights, which has a long history of pogroms against Jews, it has become an almost daily norm to have a violent hate crime perpetrated by black males against visibly religious Jews. Since October of 2018 there have been 15 reported attacks; these were not robberies, but pure hateful thuggery with no other purpose than to destroy the peace and life of someone who committed the horrible crime of being Jewish. Why are Jews a target of such diverse hate groups as white supremacists and black nationalist antisemites? “It’s called Trickle-Down Racism,” says Dov Hikind, former NYS assemblyman, and chairman of the Coalition for a Positive America. “When antisemitic hatred is allowed and cajoled into the mainstream of America’s media consciousness it serves as the motivational fuel for violent actors to take brutal action, which leave victims with severe injuries, and in some cases nearly murdering them. Jews don’t get attacked unless prominent figures enable it by calling us ‘termites’ (Farrakhan), ‘hypnotists’ (Omar), not worthy of being ‘humanized’ (Sarsour), dual-loyalists (Tlaib)’ and ‘upholders of white supremacy’ (Mallory). They’re hatred isn’t surprising; the silence of ‘good people’ is.” “Worse will happen,” warns Hikind, “if we don’t take stronger action. Wake up! This has been allowed to fester for too long. We need concentrated and sustained police presence to deter such actions. Residents of Crown Heights are living in fear as it has become dangerous to be in certain areas at certain hours if you happen to be a Jew. Nobody wants to find ourselves at a future point after a funeral that could have been averted because the communities and the city failed to come together with a solution for protecting residents and easing tensions. Action is needed. Talk is cheap and will not suffice.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Launches “Antisemite Of The Year Award” Featuring Top 10 Of World’s Jew-Haters

February 5, 2019 6:30 pm 11 Comments

“This is a participatory approach to having a social conversation to determine who among these ten celebrated racists deserves the moniker of ‘Antisemite of the Year’ for their contributions to the spreading of Nazi-level propaganda that would make Joseph Goebbels (Nazi propaganda minister) proud,” said Dov Hikind, former New York state assemblyman, and chairman of the Coalition for a Positive America The ‘Antisemite of the Year Award’ campaign presents ten of the most notorious antisemites who are presented with one of their many offending statements that prove a consistent antisemitism. Online users can vote for any of the ten nominees presented or submit a ‘write-in’ choice. The winner, with most votes, will win the Joseph P. Goebbels Excellence in Propaganda Grant, a value of $5,000, which will go to helping the winner publicize their antisemitic comments through an online campaign. They’ll also get a signed bobble-Goebbels-head that spews out antisemitic vitriol every time you make him open his mouth. “This campaign serves as a warning to those who will later say they didn’t know or weren’t warned,” cautioned Hikind. “Whether they’re on the Left or the Right, all of these haters have been nominated because they are consistent in their expressions of hatred for the Jewish people, sometimes expressed in code of ‘anti-Zionism’ which everyone knows is just the in-vogue way of being a Jew-hater. They also hold the proud distinction of being the faces of this new-layer of the ‘oldest hatred’.” Every year, antisemites battle it out to be the most vile in their anti-Judaism. Time has come to acknowledge the greatest of the worst antisemites with the “Antisemite of the Year” Award. Vote for your favorite or add your own.https://t.co/7GNhQeyY3h pic.twitter.com/vtIqtbZ8ti — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) February 5, 2019 Who will win the “Antisemite of the Year” award? @IlhanMN? @RashidaTlaib? @LouisFarrakhan? @LindaSarsour? Or @jeremycorbyn? Winner will be announced tonight and will receive an autographed copy of Mein Kampf! Vote now before the polls close: https://t.co/7GNhQeyY3h pic.twitter.com/vW2KH7K3J2 — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) February 10, 2019 (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Alibaba Responds Swiftly To Dov Hikind’s Request To Remove Offensive Nazi Swastika-Symbols From Website

January 24, 2019 8:00 pm 7 Comments

It all began when Dov Hikind’s granddaughter, a 16-year old high school student, was perusing AliExpress.com for products of interest and came across an entire section of swastika-themed symbols. As the great-granddaughter of Holocaust survivors who saw the number-tattooed arm of her great-grandmother OBM, she was shocked and mortified. Equally horrified was Dov who sprung into action by dispatching a letter to AliExpress and their China-based parent company AliBaba Group (one of the largest corporations in the world) requesting the immediate removal of all swastika-themed products. “The message to them was simple,” said Hikind, who is chairman of the Coalition for a Positive America. “While the swastika originated in southeast Asia, everyone knows that symbols can be appropriated and acquire new meaning. In short, they were notified that individual sellers were profiting off of a Nazi symbol that was emblematic of the Holocaust and genocide.” Barely a day later, Brion Tingler from AliBaba’s External Affairs department, responded saying “Thank you for bringing these concerns to us. We value such communication from our stakeholders. As you would probably have guessed, merchandise with Nazi symbols violates our listing policies and will be removed once identified.” There are many lessons here according to Hikind: “First, when we see an injustice we’re required to speak up regardless of any expectation of results. Second, this is what responsible and moral business-dealing looks like. Such swift and unequivocal action without seeking excuses is not only praiseworthy of AliBaba, but should serve as a behavioral model for other multinational companies that are ordinarily too profitable to feel obliged to deal with what can seem insignificant to its bottom line.” Ultimately, acting morally is always best for a company’s bottom line, and AliBaba demonstrated that in spades. All those who are offended at the sight of symbols of hatred can rejoice in gratitude knowing there are at least some companies that are unwilling to profit off of hate. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Slams Gillibrand As She Takes Major Step Towards White House Run

January 15, 2019 10:00 pm 3 Comments

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand has taken a major step toward announcing a presidential bid, saying she is launching an exploratory committee for a White House run. The 52-year-old New York Democrat said Tuesday on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”: “It’s an important first step and it’s one I am taking because I am going to run.” Gillibrand joins what is expected to be a crowded primary field for the Democratic nomination that could include more than a dozen candidates. Already, Gillibrand has plans to travel to the leadoff caucus state of Iowa later this week. She also has more than $10.5 million left over from her 2018 re-election campaign that she can use toward a presidential run. Tonight I announced that I’m preparing to run for president, because I believe we’re all called to make a difference. I believe in right vs. wrong – that wrong wins when we do nothing. Now is our time to raise our voices and get off the sidelines. Join me: https://t.co/I1vp93u0wh — Kirsten Gillibrand (@SenGillibrand) January 15, 2019 Meanwhile, former NY Assemblyman Dov Hikind released a statement upon her announcement: Congratulations to Senator Gillibrand upon her announcement to run for president in 2020. The only question is, which Gillibrand is running? “There’s likely no other candidate seeking the Democratic Party’s nomination that has been less consistent or a bigger flip-flopper than Senator Gillibrand,” says former Democrat assemblyman from New York and chairman of the Coalition for a Positive America, Dov Hikind. Consider the following facts of her voting record and public statements: as a candidate for Congress running in Hudson Valley, N.Y. she was considered (by herself and colleagues) to be a ‘moderate to conservative’ legislator. As a newly-elected Democrat from N.Y. she joined the conservative caucus called the Blue Dog Coalition, bragging that her voting record was “one of the most conservative in the state.” She even campaigned against granting amnesty to illegal immigrants. Fast-forward to today where she was one of the first and loudest to declare “abolish ICE!” That’s not the only issue she’s flip-flopped so radically on. As a congresswoman, Gillibrand was one of the original co-sponsors of the largely bipartisan legislation making it illegal to boycott the State of Israel, but now she’s against the very same legislation citing First Amendment concerns, taking a position closer to the far-Left Bernie Sanders. Following in his footsteps, and despite the outrageously anti-Semitic statements made by Women March leaders, Tamika Mallory and Linda Sarsour (who famously wrote “There’s nothing creepier than Zionism”), Gillibrand praised these very open haters as “extraordinary women.” As a congresswoman from upstate New York, she was all pro-gun and had an A-rating from the NRA. She even told Newsday in February of 2009 that she “kept two rifles under her bed.” Despite having been gung-ho on guns just years ago, she has now joined the far-Left in seeking some of the most restrictive gun legislation ever proposed. In all fairness, Gillibrand, like every politician, has a right to change her positions; she’s even stated publicly that all of her old positions were outright wrong, and her newly adopted positions are the correct ones. But what accounts for this complete about-face? What happened? Was there some late-night epiphany with the sky parting and a voice calling out to her?

Hikind Calls On Trump Administration To Intercede As Palestinian-American Is Sentenced To Life In Prison By Pa For Selling Properties To Jews

December 31, 2018 6:00 pm No Comments

Last month, NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) warned that Isaam Akel, an American citizen, was undergoing torture in a Palestinian prison for allegedly selling properties to Israeli Jews. Today, a Palestinian Authority court in Ramallah sentenced this American citizen to life in prison with hard labor. Hikind is calling on the Trump administration to intervene immediately. “I know that President Trump is aware of the situation because I personally handed him a letter from Akel’s wife and discussed the dire situation with him when I was at the White House,” said Hikind. “I also met with Ambassador David Friedman about the issue. This is an outrage that the United States cannot tolerate: An American citizen illegally kidnapped from Israel, tortured and now sentenced to life in prison for allegedly selling property to Jews!” Last month, Assemblyman Hikind met with Akel’s wife to discuss the plight of her 53-year-old husband, an Arab-American resident of Jerusalem. At that time, Hikind called upon the UN and human rights groups to also demand the release, but no such demand followed. “This is not Hamas, the recognized terror organization, that has directed this act against an Arab American,” said Hikind. “This is the Palestinian Authority—the so-called moderates—the official government of the Palestinians who have perpetrated this crime against a U.S. citizen. “Imagine the outcry if Israel jailed a Jew for allegedly selling land to an Arab. Would human rights groups stand silent if this man was persecuted for selling land to a Black family or an Asian family? I’m calling on those who care about human rights—those groups who advocate for everyone else—to speak out about this heinous violation of human rights against an Arab-American who committed no crime! All of us must unite to free this innocent man.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Calls On Nadler To Cease Funding Farrakhan

December 27, 2018 8:00 pm 4 Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) called on Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-New York) to lead the charge against Louis Farrakhan, America’s highest-profile Jew-hater, who reportedly received $364,500 in taxpaper money to preach his special brand of hatred. Hikind said that it is outrageous that Farrakhan’s organization, the Nation of Islam, has received Justice Department grants to offer federal inmates “spiritual services” when the head of the organization’s messages are divisive, dangerous and wholly un-American. “With Democrats about to take over the Congress, this is the ideal time for Representative Nadler, my Congressman, to show real leadership and stand up to this notorious bigot,” said Hikind. “It is beyond comprehension how we can entrust Federal funds to someone as openly hateful and destructive as Farrakhan, America’s own Goebbels. Farrakhan takes every opportunity to attack Jews, whites and gays in an effort to create an atmosphere of hatred. Congressman Nadler has an opportunity to show real leadership now and send a message that our party and our country are about inclusion, not hatred. Hatred, racism, anti-Semitism must be opposed regardless of whether it comes from the left or the right.” Farrakhan has an untarnished record of spewing anti-Semitic and anti-gay hatred: “White folks are going down. And Satan is going down. And Farrakhan, by God’s grace, has pulled a cover off of that Satanic Jew, and I’m here to say your time is up, your world is through. You good Jews better separate because the satanic ones will take you to hell with them because that’s where they are headed.” “The Jews have control over those agencies of government. When you want something in this world, the Jew holds the door.” “White people running Mexico are Mexican-Jews.” “German Jews financed Hitler right here in America… International bankers financed Hitler and poor Jews died while big Jews were at the root of what you call the Holocaust …. Little Jews died while big Jews made money. Little Jews being turned into soap while big Jews washed themselves with it. Jews playing violin, Jews playing music, while other Jews (were) marching into the gas chambers.” “The Jews don’t like Farrakhan, so they call me Hitler. Well, that’s a good name. Hitler was a very great man.” “Jews were responsible for all of this filth and degenerate behavior that Hollywood is putting out, turning men into women and women into men” His May 27 sermon was titled “Thoroughly and completely unmasking the Satanic Jew and the Synagogue of Satan,” Farrakhan said: “Do you know that many of us who go to Hollywood seeking a chance have to submit to anal sex and all kinds of debauchery, and they give you a little part. It’s called the casting couch. See, that’s Jewish power.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Applauds Osey Chail’s Creating “A Home” For Charedi Lone Soldiers

December 27, 2018 6:30 am No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) had the highest praise for the Osey Chail Association, which provides Charedi lone soldiers with everything that a biological family is meant to provide for a son serving in the army. The Assemblyman hosted Aharon Granot, the association’s founder, as well as Yaakov Nissen Baum, a 21-year-old two-year veteran of the IDF, and the three discussed the vital need for support of Haredi soldiers, who are often looked down upon by their families and community. “The most important thing anyone can do is learn Torah,” said Hikind. “But when they are not learning, they should take part in protecting their families against those who want to murder us. Unfortunately, not all families in Israel approve of their children serving in the IDF even when there’s the highest level of kasherous and Sabbath observance in their units. Consequently, there’s a real need for an organization like Osey Chail, which provides a home, clothing, concern, professional counseling and family to these brave young men. My family was honored to have Yaakov Nissen, an observant soldier, in our home.” Granot, a resident of Kiryat Arba, left his work as an editor of Mishpacha, a haredi magazine, to found Osey Chail in 2016. Since that time, his association has become the point of reference for commanding officers, officers responsible for service conditions, rabbis, and especially for soldiers thrown out of their homes due to their military service. In addition to Sabbath and holiday needs, soldiers are provided with whatever they require, including thermal clothing and anything else that biological parents provide for their children. “The disconnect between the Haredi community and the IDF is one of the worst things happening is Israel,” said Hikind. “We need to heal that wound and Osey Chail is one of the cures. I am proud to support their efforts and hope others will join me in lessoning the burden carried by this association and these fine, religious defenders of Israel and Israelis. Contact me at [email protected] and I’ll be happy to make the introduction.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Photo Essay: Reception Held In Boro Park To Celebrate Dov Hikind’s Legacy As He Retires (Photos by JDN)

December 13, 2018 6:15 pm 3 Comments

Hikind, Trump Discuss U.S. Citizen Held And Tortured By Palestinian Authority

December 9, 2018 7:15 pm No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) and President Trump discussed a U.S. citizen who is being held and tortured by the Palestinian Authority. At the White House on Thursday, Hikind delivered to the President a letter from Maran Akel, the wife of the tortured man, pleading with the President to help bring her husband back. Issam Akel, a 53-year-old Arab-American resident of Jerusalem and U.S. citizen, was kidnapped by the PA two months after it was alleged that he sold property to Jews. On Friday, Palestinian Arab Ahmad Salamah, who was sought for the same “crime” of selling land to Jews, was murdered in the city Jaljuliya. The heartfelt letter from Maram Akel describes the dire situation: [Isam’s] physical and mental health is deteriorating from day to day, and I fear that if this continues, he will not survive for much longer. Our two little girls and I have only one simple request—to get our father and husband back. Things have been very hard since Isam was taken from us, when the man of the house is gone we have no livelihood and safety…All is even more difficult when we know Isam is tortured with his life in constant danger. I am putting myself in danger as well when fighting for Isam, but I turn to you now as I know the American government, with your guidance and leadership, has been making great efforts for Isam’s release… Please help us in doing everything possible to find justice for Isam and our family. Last week, in Jerusalem, Hikind spent time with Akel’s family in a meeting he described as heartbreaking. “Who did this? Not Hamas, the recognized terror organization, but rather the Palestinian Authority—the so-called moderates and official government of the Palestinians. They perpetrated this crime against a U.S. citizen.” Following Hikind’s meeting with the family, he visited U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. “The President told me he will look into this situation,” said Hikind. “America defends its citizens and we are determined to do everything necessary to secure Issam Akel’s freedom.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Trump Invites Hikind, Survivors To White House As Merkel Promises Justice For Nazi Palij

December 5, 2018 9:15 am No Comments

New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) will lead a group of Holocaust survivors to the White House Chanukah Reception tomorrow at the personal invitation of President Trump. Hikind says the survivors—most of whom are in their 90s—look forward to personally thanking the President for removing Nazi guard Jakiw Palij from the United States. Hikind also received a letter from Chancellor Angela Merkel promising that the German government’s judiciary is “exploring all avenues to bring Palij to justice.” Palij served as an armed guard at the Trawniki forced-labor camp under the direction of the then German government, and participated in the extermination of some 6,000 Jews. Following Palij’s deportation to Germany in August—for which President Trump recognized Hikind’s years of effort—Hikind has continued to beseech Chancellor Merkel to try Palij for his war crimes. “Palij played an active and indisputable role in the tragic murder of innocent people,” said Hikind. “On behalf of the thousands of survivors who still remain alive, I applaud Chancellor Merkel’s decision to accept Palij following a U.S. Federal Court decision ordering his removal from the U.S. in 2004, and for Germany’s continued efforts to bring Palij to justice. These actions demonstrate to the world that while justice may move slowly, ultimately it does prevail. “The survivors who are accompanying me to the White House look forward to thanking our President in person for his leadership on this issue and for making them feel safer in the United States where, sadly, acts of anti-Semitism have been on the rise. We know our President will continue doing everything in his power to stem the tide of ugly racism and anti-Semitism.” Assemblyman Hikind also thanked Rizy Horowitz of Nachas Health Organization in Brooklyn for arranging transportation for the Holocaust survivors to the White House and for decades of her dedication to the survivors. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Meets U.S. Amb. Friedman to Discuss U.S. Citizen Held & Tortured By Palestinian Authority

November 29, 2018 8:15 pm No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) met this morning with U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman to discuss the American citizen being held captive and tortured by the Palestinian Authority. Issam Akel, a 53-year-old Arab-American resident of Jerusalem and U.S. citizen, was taken captive by the PA after it was alleged that he sold property to Jews. “The Ambassador assured me that the Secretary of State and Trump Administration are now involved,” said Hikind. “America defends its citizens and we are determined to do everything necessary to secure Issam Akel’s freedom.” Yesterday, Assemblyman Hikind met with Akel’s family. He described the meeting as heartbreaking. “There are two young daughters, 3 and 7. They are crying that they want their father back. His wife wants her husband back. For two months, he has been held and tortured for the alleged crime of selling property to Jews. This is intolerable. “This is not Hamas, the recognized terror organization, that has directed this act against an Arab American. This is the Palestinian Authority—the so-called moderates—the official government of the Palestinians who have perpetrated this crime against a U.S. citizen. Imagine the outcry if Israel jailed a Jew for allegedly selling land to an Arab.” Hikind praised Ambassador Friedman and the Trump administration for their involvement. “All of us must unite, speak out and do whatever is necessary to free this innocent man,” said Hikind. In a long meeting in Jerusalem Wednesday afternoon with Akel’s wife Maram, Hikind learned how Issam has been tortured in a PA prison for two months. Issam lived in America for 12 years. His four siblings and their families continue to reside in the U.S. “This is a proud Arab-American family,” said Hikind. While the United States has officially demanded the immediate release of its citizen, Hikind is calling upon the UN and human rights groups to also demand the release. “This is not Hamas, the recognized terror organization, that has directed this act against an Arab American,” said Hikind. “This is the Palestinian Authority—the so-called moderates—the official government of the Palestinians who have perpetrated this crime against a U.S. citizen. “Imagine the outcry if Israel jailed a Jew for allegedly selling land to an Arab. Would human rights groups stand silent if this man was persecuted for selling land to a Black family or an Asian family? I’m calling on those who care about human rights—those groups who advocate for everyone else—to speak out about this heinous violation of human rights against an Arab-American who committed no crime!” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Meets Family Of Arab-American Jailed, Tortured By Palestinians

November 29, 2018 6:00 am No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) says an American citizen is undergoing torture in a Palestinian prison. The Assemblyman met today with the family of Issam Akel, a 53-year-old Arab-American resident of Jerusalem and U.S. citizen. Akel was imprisoned by the Palestinian Authority after it was alleged that he sold property to Jews. In a long meeting in Jerusalem this afternoon with Akel’s wife Maram, Hikind learned how Issam has been tortured in a PA prison for two months. “It was heartbreaking to see this gentle family, see up close the pain that they are experiencing by having their family torn apart,” said Hikind. “There are two young daughters, Natalie age 7, and Sila age 3. ‘I just want my husband back,” Maram cried to me. ‘My children just want their father back.” Issam lived in America for 12 years. His four siblings and their families continue to reside in the U.S. “This is a proud Arab-American family,” said Hikind. While the United States has officially demanded the immediate release of its citizen, Hikind is calling upon the UN and human rights groups to also demand the release. “This is not Hamas, the recognized terror organization, that has directed this act against an Arab American,” said Hikind. “This is the Palestinian Authority—the so-called moderates—the official government of the Palestinians who have perpetrated this crime against a U.S. citizen. “Imagine the outcry if Israel jailed a Jew for allegedly selling land to an Arab. Would human rights groups stand silent if this man was persecuted for selling land to a Black family or an Asian family? I’m calling on those who care about human rights—those groups who advocate for everyone else—to speak out about this heinous violation of human rights against an Arab-American who committed no crime!” Hikind praised American Ambassador to Israel David Friedman and the Trump administration who condemned the PA for Akel’s kidnapping. He also thanked Yifa Segal, Director of the International Legal Forum in Jerusalem, who he said he will be working with to free Akel. “All of us must unite to free this innocent man,” said Hikind. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

FJCC Supports Simcha Eichenstein For NYS Assembly; Thank Hikind For Years Of Service

November 5, 2018 9:15 pm No Comments

The Flatbush Jewish Community Coalition, FJCC , leadership announced its support for Simcha Eichenstein for the 48th District in the NYS Assembly. “We encourage all voters to come out tomorrow, Tuesday November 6 and vote for Simcha Eichenstein for Assembly in the 48th Assembly District. We thank Assemblyman Dov Hikind for his 36 years of service to our community. Dovs’ dedication and concern was unparalleled and we wish him well,” said Josh Mehlman, Chairman and Chaskel Bennett, Co-Founder in a joint statement. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Blasts Misinformation Circulating About Brutal Boro Park Beatdown

October 15, 2018 12:00 pm 11 Comments

A paragraph in the NY Post has NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind all worked up, and issuing a statement slamming the misinformation being sporead. The NY Post article headlined “Brutal attack in middle of Brooklyn street caught on video” has the following paragraph: “A lawyer for Afzal, though, claimed that Schwartz had punched the vehicle’s window as he was crossing the street and that Afzal feared for his life.” Hikind released the following statement to YWN: Yesterday’s attack on 62-year-old Lipa Schwartz has left our community reeling. Everyone here from children to the elderly are aware that a quiet citizen, minding his own business on the way to synagogue, was viciously attacked and brutally beaten. As surveillance video clearly shows, the attacker did not stop raining murderous blows on Mr. Schwartz until another older man distracted him—and then the attacker chased the second man, apparently with the same intention. Mr. Schwartz has been characterized in some reports as having had a prior incident with his attacker; an encounter that led to “road rage” as some described it. But this is patently untrue. Mr. Schwartz never saw his attacker before. He did not encounter him that morning prior to being attacked. Mr. Schwartz simply got up, washed, dressed, and headed for synagogue. He was a block from his home when a car screeched to a halt and someone charged at him, knocked him down and began to viciously beat him. Attempts to mis-characterize this story in an effort to lighten the intent of the attacker are dishonest. Anyone insinuating that Mr. Schwartz did anything to provoke this attack—other than being obviously dressed as a Hassidic Jew—is misinformed or purposely attempting to distort what occurred here on our streets. [LATEST UPDATE: ‘Allah’ Shouting Man Intended To Beat a DIFFERENT Hasidic Jew; Charged With Hate Crime For Brutal Boro Park Assault] FOOTAGE OF ASSAULT IN VIDEO BELOW – VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED View this post on Instagram SERIOUSLY @nypost??? A post shared by TheYeshivaWorld.com (@theyeshivaworld) on Oct 15, 2018 at 9:19am PDT (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind & Holocaust Survivors Implore Merkel To Bring Nazi To Trial

October 9, 2018 11:30 am No Comments

New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) led a group of Holocaust survivors in beseeching German Chancellor Angela Merkel to put Jakiw Palij on trial for his war crimes. Palij, who served as an armed guard at the Trawniki forced-labor camp under the direction of the then German government, participated in the extermination of some 6,000 Jews. Thanks to the efforts of U.S. Ambassador to Germany Ric Grenell and President Donald Trump, Palij was finally removed from his home in Queens, New York, and deported to Germany last month. “Palij played an active and indisputable role in the tragic murder of these innocent people,” said Hikind and a group of survivors from Aushwitz, the notorious Nazi death camp, in a letter to Chancellor. “As an armed guard at the Trawniki forced-labor camp, under the direction of the then German government, Palij and his fellow Nazis subjected prisoners to inhumane conditions, and in November 1943, some 6,000 Jewish men, women and children were shot to death in one of the largest single massacres of the Holocaust.” After Palij was discovered living illegally in Jackson, NY, Hikind and others spent nearly 14 years working to deport him. This year, Hikind redoubled his efforts in an effort to bring the issue directly to the attention of President Trump who ultimately agreed with Hikind and directed Ambassador Grenell to get the Nazi deported. “On behalf of the undersigned Holocaust survivors, as well as the thousands who still remain alive, I applaud your country’s decision to accept Jakiw Palij following a U.S. Federal Court decision ordering his removal from the United States in 2004,” Hikind wrote to Merkel. “This action demonstrates to the world that while justice may move slowly, ultimately it does prevail. “The removal of Palij from the United States to Germany was the product of the close cooperation between our two governments. This however, must serve as the first step in ultimately obtaining justice on behalf of those massacred. Placing Palij on trial would give Holocaust survivors a measure of comfort knowing that their horrible ordeal ended in justice for them, as well as those who perished.” (YWN World Headquaters- NYC)

Hikind, Ambassador Grenell Meet To Discuss Nazi’s ‘Future’

September 28, 2018 1:30 pm 1 Comment

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) met this evening with U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell to personally thank the Ambassador for his vital role in removing a Nazi from the United States. Last month, at the request of President Trump, Jakiw Palij, a Nazi war criminal living in Queens, NY, was picked up by Federal immigration authorities and put on a plane to Germany. The removal of Palij followed more than a decade of protests by Hikind and others regarding Palij being allowed to remain in the U.S., despite his war crimes and status as an illegal alien. This last year, Hikind focused on bringing Palij to President Trump’s attention. Ambassador Grenell’s role in the deportation was essential, said Hikind. “The Ambassador and I have remained in touch and his current visit to the UN was a perfect opportunity to meet and allow us to express our community’s gratitude for everything that he’s done,” said Hikind, who presented the Ambassador with a shofar that survived the Holocaust. A shofar is the ram’s horn that is sounded on Rosh Hashanah to herald in the Jewish New Year. “On behalf of all Holocaust survivors, I thanked the Ambassador for heeding our request and helping to remove the Nazi from American soil,” said Hikind. “Ambassador Grenell shared the fascinating details of what it took to convince Germany to accept Palij, who is not a German national, and to finally deport this Nazi war criminal. While he was following President Trump’s mandate in this matter, this monumental accomplishment required true leadership and determination. It was clearly very personal to Ambassador Grenell.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Dov Hikind Thanks President Trump For Shout Out During Rosh Hashonah Call With Jewish Leaders

September 6, 2018 10:00 pm No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brookyn) thanked President Donald Trump this afternoon for the kind recognition that the President personally gave him during the White House’s annual Rosh Hashonah call. “President has been a genuine friend to the Jewish people and to the State of Israel,” said Hikind. “As promised, he recognized Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel; he abolished the terribly dangerous Iran Deal, which threatened not only Israel and the rest of the Middle East, but American interests and world peace. And more recently, he took the steps necessary to remove the last known Nazi war criminal living in the United States. “I am truly grateful to our President for these things, as the Jewish people should all be, and I’m honored that the President recognized me today on his call for the work I’ve done with regard to deporting this Nazi. “My office was filled this afternoon with Holocaust survivors who the President thanked for being on the call. You can only imagine how important this call was to them. After everything they’ve been through, they can go into this coming Jewish New Year knowing that not only is their country now free of Nazis, but it was the work of President Trump—a President who cared enough to tell them how honored he was to be on the phone with them. This was a phone call that they will tell their grandchildren and great grandchildren about over the holidays—a call they deserved and will never forget. President Trump just made a real difference in their lives.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Trump Thanks Assemblyman Dov Hikind For “Gracious Remarks” About Sending Nazi Back To Germany [VIDEOS]

August 22, 2018 10:10 am 3 Comments

President Trump tweeted a thank you to NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind on Wednesday morning. His tweet read “Thank you to Democrat Assemblyman Dov Hikind of New York for your very gracious remarks on @foxandfriends for our deporting a longtime resident Nazi back to Germany! Others worked on this for decades.” As YWN reported on Tuesday, 95-year-old former Nazi camp guard, Jakiw Palij, the last Nazi war crimes suspect facing deportation from the U.S. was taken from his New York City home and spirited early Tuesday morning to Germany, following years of efforts to remove him from the United States. Palij lived quietly in the U.S. for years, as a draftsman and then as a retiree, until nearly three decades ago when investigators found his name on an old Nazi roster and a fellow former guard spilled the secret that he was “living somewhere in America.” Thank you to Democrat Assemblyman Dov Hikind of New York for your very gracious remarks on @foxandfriends for our deporting a longtime resident Nazi back to Germany! Others worked on this for decades. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 22, 2018 Hikind held protests outside the Nazi’s home for years, keeping the issue alive and lobbying elected officials to push for his deportation. This last year, Hikind called on President Trump and U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to take Palij into custody as an illegal alien deport him. Hikind organized nearly 100 of his colleagues in the NYS Assembly and Senate to lend their voices to the plea to remove Palij. This morning, Hikind went on Fox & Friends to thank President Trump for his actions. .@HikindDov: “When the president does something huge, like getting rid of the last Nazi from Queens, New York, say ‘thank you Mr. President.’” pic.twitter.com/NvbLD3um1l — Fox News (@FoxNews) August 22, 2018 .@HikindDov: “It’s almost like fellow Democrats don’t want the president to do well.” pic.twitter.com/4OxWlf8vii — Fox News (@FoxNews) August 22, 2018 My appearance on @foxandfriends this morning. Thank you, @SteveDoocy for having me on. pic.twitter.com/G1GouhMAnG — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) August 22, 2018 Holocaust survivors join together to thank @potus @realdonaldtrump for ridding America of its last Nazi. pic.twitter.com/JL38qXkeBR — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) August 22, 2018 “Never give up! That is a vital message in this story of long-overdue justice,” said Hikind on Tuesday in a statement. “I have remained with this issue for 14 years because Palij’s presence here mocked the memory of the millions who perished. There was no question of his guilt. It was imperative that someone responsible for Nazi atrocities be held accountable for his crimes. While his victims can no longer seek justice, I am delighted that President Trump and his administration took it upon themselves to deliver justice.” Earlier this year, Hikind recently released an emotional video about Palij, encouraging U.S. citizens to call the White House and demand justice. Hikind also praised Eli Rosenbaum, Director of HRSP (Human Rights and Special Prosecutions) of the Department of Justice; Rambam Mesivta led by Rabbi Zev Meir Friedman for their constant efforts to bring attention of Palij’s crimes; and his numerous colleagues in the New York State Assembly and Senate. Palij told Justice Department investigators who showed up at his door in 1993: “I would never have received my visa if I told the truth.

Hikind, BJE Successful In Bringing Kosher Tuna To Yeshivas

August 22, 2018 6:45 am No Comments

New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) announced that tuna processed in the United States will now meet the community’s koshrous standards. Since January, Hikind has been working with the heads of the State Education and Child Nutrition programs to assure that yeshivas will not lose funding for lunch programs. Hikind was initially contacted by a number of yeshivas regarding their concerns about the National School Lunch Program “Buy American” provision. Specifically, there were concerns regarding how this provision relates to the purchase and serving of tuna fish that meet the community’s standards. The provision, which came into effect last June, requires schools to purchase domestic commodities or products made in the U.S. “The Buy American provision is problematic for many yeshivas because, until now, there was no tuna processed in the U.S. that met our yeshiva’s kashrus standards,” Hikind explained. “I argued that this issue needed to be addressed in terms of cultural sensitivity. Our children need the protein that tuna provides, and our parents and yeshivas cannot be asked to compromise their standards. At the end of the day, we answer to a higher authority than even the Federal government. If kashrus standards are below what we insist upon, that tuna will not be served in our yeshivas. “Thanks to the monumental efforts of the Board of Jewish Education of Greater New York, all the parties are now in agreement, and the order for the higher standard of kashrus for StarKist tuna made in America has been approved. The BJE will send mashgichim to American Samoa early next year to supervise the production of enough tuna for all children in yeshivas in New York State and elsewhere for the next year. It will be available to the schools as a free USDA commodity. We were happy to play a role in resolving this issue. This is a great example of government working with our community to resolve a problem.” Assemblyman Hikind thanked Jonathan D. Meyer, Director of School Food Services Program, and Sara Seligson, a Managing Director at BJE for their tireless efforts in resolving the problem, as well as the New York State Office of General Services and the USDA. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

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