I am the proud descendent of Jews who fled the Nazis to settle in New York City. I am now glad to teach at my alma mater, Bronx Science, a DOE school that has its own holocaust museum. I believe that my freedom as a Jewish American is a privilege and a responsibility. That is why I urge you to stop supporting Netanyahu’s government.
The nation of Israel is currently committing well-documented war crimes against the Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, the latter population having nothing to do with Hamas or the October 7th attacks. The US is funding and condoning genocidal acts with your enthusiastic support. I am ashamed to see you visiting Israel in solidarity with these crimes supported by tax dollars that should be directed to essential services in our state.
As a science teacher with a degree in immunology and microbial pathogenesis, I am also appalled at your support for criminalizing mask-wearing in public places. Fear of protesters (who are overwhelmingly peaceful) should not take precedence over the safety and well being of the elderly, immune compromised, and disabled people.
I am a democrat and active voter. If you do not show an effort towards curbing the killing of innocent children, journalists, civilians, and doctors, I will never vote for you again. In fact, I will put considerable time and effort during my summers off toward actively preventing your reelection.
Never again means never again for anyone. Please find the courage to stand up for human rights — or, at least, to stop endorsing the violation of Geneva Conventions.
