LI Community Rallies Against Hate, Shines Light On Togetherness

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY — Dozens of people gathered to say no to hate, in response to the Proud Boys weekend march in Rockville Centre.

The crowd stood at the Central Synagogue Congregation Beth Emeth, led by Rabbi Michael Cohen.

"There [are] so many issues that we're seeing today, in the news and everyday life, that creates division," Cohen told Patch. "So, it was a really nice opportunity to just get together and support each other."

Cohen said the Jewish community was appalled by the extreme right-wing group's presence.

"We're very quick to support each other and others, having been on the receiving end quite a few times," he said.

The rabbi was one of the speakers at the Wednesday night rally, and attendees each shined a flashlight to symbolize unity.

While Cohen was delighted to see the large turnout for the anti-hate rally, he was hesitant to host the event.

"I didn't want it to be antagonistic and just kind of asking for a return or some sort of response by any sort of hate group," Cohen said. "But my hesitancy quickly subsided when I realized how moved and motivated people were to have some sort of a meeting of unity and togetherness."

Mayor Francis Murray, who also appeared, had gotten backlash for his initial remarks before adding a longer video response.

"He's sending a very powerful statement and that's certainly about the unity and cohesion of Rockville Centre," Rabbi Cohen said.

For now, Cohen does not think increasing security at his synagogue and Hebrew School is necessary. He said police are always quick to respond to his Demott Avenue location.

Rabbi David Lerner of Congregation B'nai Sholom-Beth David in Rockville Center attended the rally, as did Pastor Scott Ressman of the United Church of Rockville Centre.

"It was wonderful for him to come to the steps of the synagogue," Cohen said. "It felt like a wonderful community, not partisan and not just Jewish. He stood with us and he spoke with us and it was a very nice gesture."

The rabbi is happy to see a positive come out of the blemish on the village.

"It's always nice when the end of the discussion isn't a hate rally," Cohen said. "It's nice when the resolution is that the community comes together."