Community Outrage Grows as Councilwoman Shahana Hanif Faces Backlash for Recent Statements Following the October 7 Attacks
Protesters gathered outside the office of Brooklyn council member Shahana Hanif on Sunday, voicing their discontent over her perceived lack of support for Jewish constituents amid a rising tide of anti-Israel sentiment. Approximately 60 demonstrators accused Hanif of fueling hatred following her controversial social media posts in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, which left approximately 1,200 people dead and led to 101 hostages being taken by Hamas.
Just days after the violence, Hanif attributed the conflict to “the illegal, immoral, and unjust occupation of the Palestinian people,” sparking outrage from members of her community, particularly in neighborhoods like Kensington, Boro Park, and Park Slope, where a significant Jewish population resides.
Danny Aronson, an organizer of the protest, criticized Hanif’s comments, asserting that her actions do not reflect the needs of her constituents. “A week later, she was arrested for being too violent at a violent pro-Hamas protest,” he said. “She is making it worse.”
Hanif was not available for comment. Meanwhile, a separate vigil in Central Park drew thousands in support of the hostages still held in Gaza. The event featured a “fence of hope” adorned with photos of the captives, including Edan Alexander, a 20-year-old from New Jersey. His mother, Yael Alexander, expressed her anguish, emphasizing the urgent need for action to secure their release.
“I can’t describe the pain of not knowing where your child is,” she stated. “We need a cease-fire for peace to begin and to start to heal as a nation and as people.”
Amid the tensions, community members in Central Park, including Moshe Lavi, voiced their determination to advocate for the hostages. “When you see me smile, know that I’m in pain,” he shared, underscoring the emotional toll on families affected by the conflict.
The stark contrast between the two gatherings reflects the deep divisions within the community, as voices on both sides call for understanding, support, and decisive action in the face of ongoing violence and loss.
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