10/07/2026
Three years later, the pain of October 7 remains deeply personal.
Today, I reflect not only as a legislator, but as a proud member of the Jewish community. I remember those we lost, stand with the people of Israel, and reaffirm a promise that must never fade with time: we will never forget.
Please swipe to read my message on this solemn anniversary.
Three years ago today, the Jewish people experienced a horror that is difficult to put into words.
On October 7, 2023, families woke up to what should have been an ordinary morning in their homes and communities in Israel. Instead, innocent men, women and children were murdered. Families were torn apart. People were ripped from their homes and taken hostage. Parents lost children, children lost parents, and countless lives were changed forever.
Three years later, the passage of time has not diminished the weight of that day.
For me, October 7 has never been a distant tragedy or simply another event happening overseas. My connection to Israel, to the Jewish people, and to the Jewish community I am so privileged to represent is deeply personal. I know that for so many families here in Nassau County, it is personal too. Israel is where we have family and friends. It is part of our faith, our history, our identity and our hearts.
In the days following October 7, we said that we would never forget. Three years later, those words must still mean something.
We remember every innocent life stolen that day. We remember the families who have had to live with unimaginable grief. We remember those who were taken from their homes and loved ones. We remember the courage and resilience of the people of Israel. And we remember that the pain of October 7 did not end when the headlines changed.
We have also watched antisemitism reveal itself in ways that have been deeply painful and, at times, frightening. Jewish Americans should never have to hide who they are, conceal their faith, or wonder whether openly standing with Israel will make them a target for hatred or intimidation. I will never accept that as normal.
My commitment to standing with Israel an
