Saying “We’re not going to tolerate any forms of hate,” Gov. Kathy Hochul spoke out Monday against last week’s intrusion at the Islamic Center of Melville.
The governor met with leaders of the mosque to assure them about safety concerns that were raised when Jordan Endler entered a building on the property Wednesday, demanded the release of hostages taken during the Hamas attack on Israel in October, and refused to leave. Endler, an attorney, was arrested Thursday and charged with harassment and trespassing.
The governor said that state police would deploy resources to protect the mosque, adding patrols as needed, especially as the Muslim holiday of Ramadan approaches. She was accompanied by acting state police superintendent Steven G. James.
“We’re not going to tolerate any forms of hate, whether it’s Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, racism or homophobia.That’s not who we are as New Yorkers.”
Sally Hassanien, vice president of the mosque, and Sunday school principal, said the safety of the mosque members was of paramount concern, but especially the children. “We appreciate the governor’s support. We’re very confident that everything will be done and that our congregants and our children will be safe.”