Just over 100 days since Hamas’s brutal attack on Israel, representatives from the Jewish Federations of Dutchess, Orange, and Ulster Counties presented Rep. Pat Ryan (D, NY-18) and his staff with a thank-you letter with nearly 400 local signatures, for his ardent support of Israel’s right to exist, his ongoing fight against antisemitism, and his continued efforts to free hostages still held by Hamas, including American citizens and Hudson Valley residents. 

The Jewish Federations peacefully presented their letter at Rep. Ryan’s Kingston office, which was besieged by anti-Israel protestors nearly two weeks ago.

“We’ve seen the increasingly threatening anti-Israel protests across this country, and we came today with an important message: Just because an opinion is voiced loudly does not mean it’s accurate or representative of us all. We represent hundreds of Hudson Valley constituents who proudly stand with Congressman Ryan and thank him for his continued support of Israel, as well as his work to combat antisemitism in the Hudson Valley,” said Karen Hochhauser, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Dutchess County.

“The last 100 days have been extraordinarily difficult for Jews around the world,” said Wendy Cedar, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County. “We’ve watched neighbors cheer the murder of Jews, deny that the mass rape of Israeli women even occurred, and show no concern at all for the American citizens still held hostage. With Orange County native, Judith Haggai, brutally murdered by Hamas, very few have stepped up to express their support for the Jewish community. We are lucky to have a Congressman who stands up to the persistent antisemitism in the Hudson Valley and around the country. Thank you Congressman Ryan for clearly and forcefully fighting alongside the Jewish people against this overwhelming current of hate and violence,” Cedar said. 

“Our heart breaks for the people of Israel, who have experienced unspeakable anguish, and I firmly believe Congressman Ryan’s message is one we should all get behind,” said Rondavid Gold, president of the Jewish Federation of Ulster County. “Bring the hostages home, remove Hamas, and rededicate ourselves to a lasting peace. That’s what we should be focused on, not calls for a unilateral ceasefire, which would allow Hamas to commit the horrors of October 7th over and over again. Congressman Ryan is a true champion of the Hudson Valley Jewish community, and today’s outpouring of support proves that.”

The mission of the Jewish Federations is to protect and enhance the well-being of Jews worldwide, through meaningful contributions to community, Israel and civil society.