I had planned to share with you a bit about what we are working on in the Erie County Legislature as we prepare for budget review, hearings and amendments to the County Executive’s 2024 spending plan. But then the events of October 7 began to play across our tv and computer screens, a situation so dire and troublesome that its impact is deeply personal to so many here in Western New York.
The atrocities committed on the innocent in Israel by absolute cowards is heart-wrenching and devastating. Babies, toddlers, the elderly, and young people enjoying a Peace Festival were targeted in the most heinous way, leaving a country and world grieving for the defenseless and vulnerable who did nothing to provoke these terrorists whose only concern is destruction and death. They have no interest in solutions, only chaos.
I have worked for years with many in the Jewish Community here in Western New York. They are among the most generous, philanthropic, decent people I have ever met. They have given much to the growth and strength of our region. Tzedakah is, indeed a core Jewish value.
This was the largest mass killing of Jews since the Holocaust. The targets weren’t soldiers in combat gear with weapons and tanks. No, the targets were babies in cribs, senior citizens in wheelchairs, toddlers hiding behind their mother’s backs, and young people enjoying how the power of music brings individuals together in the most beautiful way. When a father says he was relieved to learn his daughter had died rather than being taken hostage speaks to the cruelty of the perpetrators of this evil act.
A trip to the Holocaust Memorial in Washington DC is an eye-opener and serves as a grim reminder of what the Jews endured during World War II. History cannot repeat itself and it is up to us, all of us, to ensure that it doesn’t. We live in extremely challenging and dangerous times. Our different faiths, religions, races, and traditions are what make us unique. It is something that should be celebrated, not denigrated. We should embrace our differences and search for common ground.
As the battle rages on in Israel and Palestine, I hope here at home we can allow civility to rule the day. To my Jewish neighbors, our hearts are heavy. It is my sincere hope that it ends soon, and that better times are ahead of us. We all need to support each other and pray that peace can one day be realized.
