An impromptu rally, the brainchild of the Bergen County Jewish Action Committee (BCJA) through the initiative of Chana Shields and Emma Horowitz, took place at Votee Park on Sunday, March 17.

Despite the short notice, 350 people carrying Israeli and American flags attended, highlighting the importance of unity and peacefulness. As the streets of Teaneck/Bergenfield once again were invaded by a parade of Palestinian supporters, local rabbis and speakers emphasized the need to not be intimidated and focus on the peaceful lives we have always shared and wish to maintain in our community.

The program began with an introduction by Shields, chairperson of the BCJA committee, followed by Rabbi Daniel Fridman of the Teaneck Jewish Center and Rabbi Chaim Strauchler of Congregation Rinat Yisrael. Rabbi Benyamin Krohn of the Young Israel of Teaneck then led those in attendance in reciting Tehillim. Interludes of music led by Chaim Kiss brought special moments of excitement to the crowd as they chanted and swayed and shouted Am Yisrael Chai.

A moving moment for all was when the attendees heard the passion in the voice of Ed Stelzer as he related how 80 years ago his grandfather left Europe, and described a village where suddenly no one was left. As they watched the trains going by taking people to their deaths, the Jews of the world promised, “Never Again.” He implored everyone to not be intimidated. We must continue each day never forgetting and never allowing such intimidation tactics to change the course of our lives nor the communities in which we live.

Immediately following Stelzer’s speech the entire group joined in chanting Am Yisrael Chai and the dancing began with wide circles and participants holding their flags and signs high in the air.

To get further involved in the Bergen County Jewish Action Committee go to their website at https://www.bcjac.org