Dear New Yorkers,  

Fighting the rise of hate violence in New York City – and in every community – requires collective action across communities to educate, protect, and support one another. 

Right now in New York City schools, students are learning how it’s possible to take small steps away from escalation, and in the direction of peace and dialogue. In the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to visit public schools across the city and see thoughtful programs up close. 

So I want to take a moment to recognize some encouraging models for how we do the critical work of anti-hate education. New York City students are our future leaders, and I’m deeply inspired by their anti-hate work. 

Holocaust Education for 8th Graders 

• I was thrilled to learn about a new exhibit that brings 8th grade students to the Museum of Jewish Heritage. This program – in collaboration with Council Member Julie Menin, DOE Chancellor David Banks and others – aims to educate middle schoolers about the Holocaust and reinforce the importance of making #NeverAgain a reality. 
• The powerful exhibit, specially aimed toward adolescents, highlights the incredible story of Danish Jews who escaped Nazi death camps through their courage and the solidarity of their neighbors. This story, which deeply inspired me during my visit to Copenhagen earlier this spring, serves as a remarkable lesson in bravery and community support. 

AAPI Classroom 

• On May 24, I had the privilege of attending a session of the "AAPI Classroom" program at Midwood High School, organized by the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF). I was deeply impressed by Midwood High School senior Julie Wu, who taught her diverse array of classmates about the history and present realities of anti-Asian hate. Julie's ability to connect with her peers and foster understanding and solidarity was truly inspiring. 
• Later, we celebrated AAPI Classroom graduation at 1 Centre Street. All month long as part of this initiative, these students taught their peers understanding and appreciation of AAPI history and cultures. I can't wait to see the positive impact their work has. 

Mindfulness & Wellbeing Day at PS 373 Brooklyn Transition Center 

• As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, I visited PS 373 Brooklyn Transition Center, a District 75 school serving students aged 14-21 with specialized instruction needs. 
• My friend Tim Hwang, who specializes in teaching mindfulness to students with disabilities, organized a “Mindfulness & Wellbeing Day,” providing valuable lessons for students and staff alike. 
• The emphasis on mindfulness and mental health is crucial, and the workshop underscored the importance of supporting the wellbeing of all students. Mindfulness is a critical skill that can help combat hate by building more inclusive, understanding, and mentally healthy communities. 

As AAPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness month ends, let’s recommit to never allowing fear to turn into hate. We must be vigilant against dehumanizing rhetoric and insist on shared humanity. We can find the radical empathy and grace required for the times we live in. 

Thanks, 

Brad