Largest U.S. Township Establishes Antisemitism Task Force for Major Jewish Community

The Town of Hempstead in New York, the largest township in America, has launched an Antisemitism Task Force to address rising hate and help safeguard its Jewish community, the second-largest in the United States after New York City. Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin made the announcement on Thursday at the Hebrew Academy of Nassau County in West Hempstead, introducing the task force as a proactive response to growing antisemitism across the country.

This new task force brings together local community and spiritual leaders to combat hate through education, outreach, and security measures. “Education and community outreach will include various methods such as partnering with local educational institutions to host historical programs, implementing Holocaust education, and supporting interfaith and multicultural initiatives,” read a statement from the town, shared by the Combat Antisemitism Movement.

The task force will also work with local villages to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, which includes not only traditional forms of antisemitism but also more recent manifestations targeting Israel, such as denying its right to exist or holding it to unfair standards compared to other democracies.

Hempstead has been a leader in fighting antisemitism. In 2021, the town became the first in its region to pass legislation against the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement targeting Israel. The IHRA definition was also adopted by the town to strengthen its stance against hate.

Clavin emphasized the need for a zero-tolerance policy against hate, citing rising incidents of antisemitism across the nation. “There is a growing trend of antisemitism ramping up through the nation. It is our responsibility to be proactive,” Clavin said. He also recalled recent antisemitic graffiti incidents in the town, including vandalism targeting posters of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas. A suspect, Sebastian Patino Caceres, was arrested and charged in connection with the incident.

Hempstead’s action comes amid a worrying rise in antisemitism across New York state. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), antisemitic incidents in New York jumped by 110 percent in 2023—the highest number ever recorded by the ADL in the state.

As the Jewish high holy days approach, Clavin expressed pride in Hempstead’s commitment to ensuring that residents can practice their faith freely and safely. The task force will work closely with local law enforcement to enhance security for Jewish community centers and religious institutions.

Hempstead’s new task force is a vital step in addressing the growing wave of antisemitism and ensuring that the town remains a place where all can live and worship without fear.

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