Anti-Defamation League to expand Westchester programs

The Anti-Defamation League is forming a local advisory committee in Westchester County to help expand its education programs and initiatives in the community.

The launch of the league”™s new committee was announced Oct. 21 at the Metropolis Country Club in White Plains, with a roster of speakers that included U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, D-Bronx, state Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, D-Scarsdale, and Reginald Richardson, the principal of New Rochelle High School.

The speakers highlighted the league’s “No Place For Hate” initiative, which the organization said is designed to create inclusive communities and empower students, faculty, administrations and family members to challenge bigotry, bias and bullying, while equipping institutions with long-term solutions for creating a positive climate. The league recognizes “No Place For Hate” institutions after they follow certain guidelines.

“The fight against discrimination and bigotry must begin at an early age, which is why we need educational programs,” Paulin said. “Programs such as No Place for Hate will assist schools to better understand the enemy within and help them meet the requirements of The Dignity for All Students Act passed in 2013 by the New York State Legislature.”

Evan R. Bernstein, the Anti-Defamation League”™s New York regional director, said, “New York state is not immune to bigotry, prejudice, anti-Semitism and consistent bullying in schools. … It made perfect sense to introduce more of our educational initiatives in Westchester with the goal of making a direct impact on the environment in the classroom.”