Presiding Officer Gonsalves Hosts Anti-Semitism Awareness Event
Nassau County Presiding Officer Norma Gonsalves recently hosted the first in a series of events to raise awareness about anti-Semitism. Presiding Officer Gonsalves and other members of the Legislature had the honor and privilege to be addressed by Brita Wagener, the Consulate General from the Federal Republic of Germany. Consulate General Waegner spoke about the ongoing fight against anti-Semitism in Germany and in Europe.
“I would like to thank Consulate General Waegner for her eye opening remarks, discussing the wonderful strides Germany has taken in the past 70 years to become the welcoming, inclusive country they are today,” said Presiding Officer Gonsalves. “We should remember, both at home and abroad, that intolerance only occurs when we allow it to occur; when it comes to fighting intolerance we must be involved, not be a bystander.”
Waegner’s speech was meaningful and inspiring. She discussed the importance of remembering the past as a means of helping to honor moral obligations. “Remembrance tells us to protect and preserve humanity,” stated Waegner. “It tells us to protect and preserve the rights of every human being.”
In addition to the Consulate General, Beth Lilach of the Nassau County Museum of Holocaust and Tolerance, and Deputy Inspector Gary Shapiro, head of the Nassau County Police Department’s Bias Crime Unit also spoke. The two addressed the need for constant vigilance against hate speech and crimes here on Long Island, and to remind the public to contact the police whenever there is suspected hate speech.
Pictured in the photo are: Beth Lilach of the Nassau County Museum of Holocaust and Tolerance, Consulate General Brita Waegner and Presiding Officer Gonsalves.