Brooklyn, NY�New York City Council Member Simcha Felder (D-Midwood, Bensonhurst, Boro Park) played host to more than thirty high school students from the Washington, DC area on Wednesday as they toured Boro Park and learned about the neighborhood�s orthodox Jewish community. The group is part of Operation Understanding DC, a non-profit organization founded to eradicate racism, anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination by fostering better cultural connections between young African-Americans and Jews. Students participate in six month program of workshops and lectures focused on understanding each other�s religion, history and culture before embarking on a month-long summer journey through U.S. cities of significance to both communities.

�Programs like this not only help bridge cultural gaps but also teach the next generation of leaders that there is no place for anti-Semitism or any other form of racism in our society,� said Felder.

Felder staff members led the group on a tour of Boro Park while answering questions about the neighborhood�s unique community and Councilman Felder�s role in the community. Among other stops, the group visited Boro Park�s bustling 13th Avenue shopping district and the 66th Police Precinct where they spoke with officers and community liaisons about the area and its community. They also enjoyed the day�s weather in 18th Avenue�s Gravesend Park which was recently renovated with funds secured by Councilman Felder.

(YWN Desk – NYC)