Brooklyn, NY—New York City Council Member Simcha Felder (D-Midwood, Bensonhurst, Boro Park) played host to more than thirty high school students from the Washington, DC area on Wednesday as they toured Boro Park and learned about the neighborhood’s orthodox Jewish community. The group is part of Operation Understanding DC, a non-profit organization founded to eradicate racism, anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination by fostering better cultural connections between young African-Americans and Jews. Students participate in six month program of workshops and lectures focused on understanding each other’s religion, history and culture before embarking on a month-long summer journey through U.S. cities of significance to both communities.

“Programs like this not only help bridge cultural gaps but also teach the next generation of leaders that there is no place for anti-Semitism or any other form of racism in our society,” said Felder.

Felder staff members led the group on a tour of Boro Park while answering questions about the neighborhood’s unique community and Councilman Felder’s role in the community. Among other stops, the group visited Boro Park’s bustling 13th Avenue shopping district and the 66th Police Precinct where they spoke with officers and community liaisons about the area and its community. They also enjoyed the day’s weather in 18th Avenue’s Gravesend Park which was recently renovated with funds secured by Councilman Felder.

(YWN Desk – NYC)