Letter: UJF Of Stamford, New Canaan And Darien CEO On Antisemitism And Hate

The following letter was written by United Jewish Federation of Stamford, New Canaan and Darien CEO Diane Sloyer, and submitted to Patch by the UJF in response to recent comments made by state Rep. Anabel Figueroa.

August 16, 2024

Dear Editor:

In an era when diversity and inclusion are heralded as pillars of a progressive society, it is deeply disturbing to witness an elected official expressing blatantly exclusionary antisemitism. Anabel Figueroa's recent statements have drawn widespread condemnation, and rightfully so. Her comments cannot be explained away or excused as a mere slip of the tongue. She weaponizes hate for her own personal gain, under the guise of protecting her community from an opponent whose only crime is membership in a minority group.

Those entrusted with public office must be held to a higher standard. When an elected official behaves as Ms. Figueroa has, there must be consequences, lest such behavior be normalized. Ms. Figueroa’s political career should, as the voters suggested decisively Tuesday, be over.

The unwarranted targeting of Jews is an alarming reminder of historical prejudices that continue to haunt us. It says more about the hater than the hated and societies that allow Jew hatred to thrive never fare well.

The battle against antisemitism and all forms of bigotry will never end. But by demanding consequences for those who engage in or condone hate speech, we reaffirm our commitment to a society defined by optimism and inclusivity rather than division and intolerance. There can be no compromise on this front: hate has no place in our politics or our world.

Diane Sloyer
Chief Executive Officer
Jewish Federation of Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien