Jessica Morgan:
In an atmosphere of warmth, solidarity, and shared purpose, the NYC Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes (OPHC) convened its second Interfaith Council for Symbols and Words of Peace and Hate at the Village Temple Synagogue, located at 33 East 12th Street, New York. The evening brought together faith and community leaders committed to tackling hate crimes while building bridges of understanding across the city’s diverse communities.
The gathering drew representatives from Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, and other faith traditions, all seated together in an inclusive space designed for dialogue and reflection. The synagogue setting added a sacred resonance to the discussions, reminding participants of the importance of unity in confronting prejudice.
The meeting began with a shared meal, symbolizing the breaking of barriers and affirming a collective commitment to peace. Leaders spoke candidly about the challenges facing New Yorkers today — from antisemitism and Islamophobia to hate crimes targeting Indian and South Asian communities. Participants emphasized that these issues extend beyond statistics; they affect neighbors, families, and daily life.
“This initiative is not just a series of meetings,” one attendee reflected. “It’s about truly understanding one another’s faiths, challenging ignorance, and working together to end hate in all its forms.”
Vijah (VJ) Ramjattan, Executive Director of the NYC Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes, was especially recognized for his leadership and heartfelt contributions to the day’s program. His stewardship of the initiative has guided the Interfaith Council toward actionable strategies centered on education, community outreach, and cooperative engagement.
The discussions highlighted how words and symbols can both heal and harm, and the council reaffirmed its mission to use them responsibly in advancing respect and empathy across communities. Leaders also expressed gratitude for the growing interfaith solidarity that has made the council a space of trust and hope.
As the evening concluded, participants reiterated their shared commitment to stand together against all forms of hate. The event not only strengthened interfaith bonds but also offered a vision of a New York where dialogue, respect, and compassion triumph over division.
For many, the Interfaith Council gathering was more than a meeting — it was a living example of what New York can be when its communities unite with purpose and love.
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