Bklyn Community Uproar: CEC 22 Faces Backlash Over Shabbat Meeting Scheduling

Bklyn Community Uproar: CEC 22 Faces Backlash Over Shabbat Meeting Scheduling

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In the heart of Brooklyn’s vibrant Jewish community, the Community Education Council 22 finds itself embroiled in controversy, accused of both censorship and insensitivity to religious observances. As was reported by the New York Post, the spark that ignited this firestorm was the scheduling of a crucial meeting on January 19th, a Friday night after sunset, conflicting directly with the observance of Shabbat, a sacred time for Jewish families.

Arthur Kleynerman, a prominent Jewish member of the council, stepped forward on Tuesday to deliver a statement on behalf of the board. While stopping short of offering a direct apology, Kleynerman acknowledged the community’s concerns and pledged to be more mindful of religious observances and the broader community calendar in the future, according to the information provided in the Post report. However, for many, this statement was seen as too little, too late.

Brooklyn City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov minced no words in her condemnation of the board’s actions, labeling them as discriminatory and unacceptable. As was noted in the Post report, she highlighted the current climate of anti-Semitism within the schools and called for CEC President Tracy Jordan-Bates to engage directly with the community to address the issue. Vernikov’s impassioned plea underscored the urgency of the situation and the need for genuine dialogue and accountability.

“I appreciate the statement made here but it’s a little too late,” said Vernikov. “Our schools are infested with anti-Semitism right now,” she added, as was indicated in the Post report.

Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse echoed Vernikov’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and meaningful participation in decision-making processes The report in the Post said that the sentiment resonated deeply with many community members who felt sidelined and unheard in the wake of the Sabbath meeting debacle.

Vanessa Cannistraci, a board member, bravely spoke out about feeling marginalized and disregarded when expressing concerns about the timing of the meeting. The Post report said that her testimony shed light on the internal dynamics within the council and raised questions about the extent to which diverse perspectives were considered in decision-making processes.

Despite mounting pressure and public outcry, CEC 22 remained tight-lipped in response to inquiries, further fueling frustration and disillusionment among community members, the report in the Post said. The silence from the council leadership only served to deepen the rift between the board and the constituents it serves, casting doubt on its ability to represent the diverse interests and needs of the community effectively.

As tensions continue to simmer, the onus lies squarely on CEC 22 to acknowledge its missteps, engage in meaningful dialogue with the community, and take concrete steps to rebuild trust and restore confidence. Anything short of genuine accountability and proactive measures to address the concerns raised risks further eroding the already fragile bonds between the council and the community it purports to represent. Only time will tell whether CEC 22 can rise to the challenge and emerge from this controversy stronger and more united than before.