The recent public display of posters depicting Hitler at the New York State University at Purchase is abhorrent and anti-American. I have full faith in our law enforcement and their abilities as they investigate this painful incident. Left unchallenged, hatred will continue to metastasize. We will not stand idly by when confronted by prejudice, racism and anti-Semitism. We will all stand together to defeat the primitive impulse that impels violence. As Americans and as New Yorkers, that is our obligation and our responsibility.

Assemblymember Charles Lavine represents New York’s 13th Assembly District. He is President of the New York Chapter of the National Association of Jewish Legislators and serves on its National Board of Directors.