This summer, Councilman Chaim Deutsch hosted the first-ever separate beach days for men and women. The two events were held on the campus of Kingsborough Community College in Deutsch’s district, on a stretch of secluded beach that is typically closed to the public on those days.

Every summer, tens of thousands enjoy the 2.7 mile stretch of waterfront which encompasses Coney Island, Brighton Beach, and Manhattan Beach. But some New Yorkers, particularly those who observe religious modesty laws, have never before visited the beach, swam in the ocean, or even felt the sand beneath their toes. For the first time ever, more than 1,200 individuals of different ages, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds had the opportunity to enjoy the beach and ocean. Attendees included residents of all five boroughs and beyond; including a father and his sons that coordinated their family trip from Florida to coincide with the separate beach day.

“It was absolutely incredible to see and hear how many people were able to experience a day at the beach for the first time in their lives,” said Councilman Deutsch. “These events allowed us to offer a unique opportunity to communities and folks who have been disenfranchised while living in the most diverse City in the world. I am extremely proud and gratified at how respectful, sensitive, and accommodating the college and the community were for both events. I am looking forward to continuing to offer this experience.”

Kingsborough Community College Interim President Peter Cohen said, “Kingsborough Community College appreciates its role as a community partner, and was delighted to collaborate with Councilman Deutsch to welcome people of all backgrounds to our campus for an experience that would not ordinarily be available to them.”

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