Hundreds of people of all faiths gathered Sunday, May 10, in Yellowstone Park to stand united against antisemitism following a disturbing wave of swastika graffiti and anti-Jewish vandalism targeting synagogues, homes, and community institutions throughout Forest Hills and Rego Park.
The rally, organized by IMPACT alongside the #EndJewHatred movement, brought together Jewish residents, clergy, students, activists, and elected officials determined to send a message that hatred and intimidation will not be tolerated in New York City. The event included musical performances, as attendees waved Israeli and American flags while holding signs reading “Never Again” and “This Shall Not Stand.”
The demonstration came days after residents awoke to find swastikas spray-painted across multiple Jewish locations in Queens, including synagogues, daycare centers, private homes, and property connected to Holocaust remembrance.
“We are here today because we refuse to stay silent,” declared Jayne Zirkle of The Lawfare Project. “This rally is not only about antisemitism. It is about defending Western civilization.” An impassioned Zirkle warned that the same extremist ideology targeting Jews threatens the broader foundations of American society, as well as Christians, Muslims, and anyone who values freedom and public safety.
Among the loudest applause came during remarks from Nassau County Executive and gubernatorial hopeful Bruce Blakeman, who delivered a forceful condemnation of rising antisemitism and vowed that Jewish communities would never be intimidated into silence.
“We have to make sure every antisemite knows that we will not back down,” Blakeman told the crowd. “We are going to stand together as Jews and as Americans to fight against this anti-American activity known as antisemitism.” Blakeman also called antisemitism “un-American,” warning that attacks against Jews strike at the core values of religious freedom and public safety in the United States.
Student leaders and young activists also delivered emotional testimony about the climate facing Jewish students in schools and on college campuses. Teen political commentator Hillel Kornwasser spoke about growing fears among Jewish youth, saying students are increasingly questioning whether it is safe to openly display their Jewish identity in public.
“Kids in my generation are forced to ask themselves if it’s safe to wear a kippah, and that is unacceptable,” Kornwasser said.
Queens College student leader Ariel Akbashev described the hostile atmosphere many Jewish students have encountered since October 7, recounting confrontations with anti-Israel demonstrators and harassment directed toward Jewish students on campus.
Assemblyman David Weprin warned attendees that antisemitism has escalated dramatically nationwide. “Since October 7, hate crimes have increased manyfold, and more than 50 percent of all hate crimes are antisemitic hate crimes,” Weprin said.
Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip also addressed the rally, urging elected officials to take stronger action protecting Jewish communities and houses of worship. “If you really care about our Jewish community, you should stand with us and pass bills that protect our Jewish community,” Pilip said.
The event additionally drew support from civic leaders, rabbis, community organizations, and local residents from across Queens, Long Island, and beyond, with many emphasizing that the fight against antisemitism transcends political and religious lines. Throughout the program, speakers repeatedly stressed unity, resilience, and the importance of refusing to normalize hate.
As the rally came to a close, the voices of the attendees echoed throughout the park with chants of “This Shall Not Stand,” underscoring a united determination from Jews and supporters of every faith that hate, intimidation, and antisemitism will not go unanswered in New York City.
By Robert Pearl