Today marks six years since the horrific antisemitic Chanukah stabbing attack that occurred on December 28, 2019, in Monsey. As the English-date anniversary is observed today, elected officials from across Rockland County issued statements remembering the victims and reaffirming their commitment to combating antisemitism and protecting Jewish life.
The Forshay Kehilla marked the anniversary last week, aligning with the Hebrew calendar, with a deeply moving community gathering held Motzei Shabbos during Chanukah at Tiferes Elka. Hundreds attended the event to reflect, remember, and unite in strength, honoring the memory of those affected by the attack.
Six years ago today, a hate-filled attacker stormed a Chanukah celebration at the Forshay Rebbe’s home armed with a machete, brutally injuring five people. One of the victims, Rabbi Yosef Neumann, Hy”d, later succumbed to his injuries, a loss that deeply impacted the Monsey community and reverberated throughout the Jewish world.
The attack came during a period of escalating antisemitic violence across the United States, including the deadly attacks in Pittsburgh, Poway, and Jersey City. In Rockland County, the tragedy became a turning point, prompting a renewed and coordinated focus on Jewish communal security.
Community leaders have noted that the events of December 28, 2019 directly contributed to the development and expansion of major security initiatives, including the Community Security Initiative and the LiveSecure program. Since these efforts expanded in 2022, nearly 2,500 volunteers have been trained, more than 120 security vulnerability assessments conducted, and an alert network established that now serves close to 300 synagogues, schools, camps, and Jewish institutions. Millions of dollars in state and federal Nonprofit Security Grants have also been secured, alongside strengthened partnerships with law enforcement at all levels.
As today’s English-date anniversary is observed, elected officials released statements reflecting on the tragedy and its lasting impact.
Bill Weber, New York State Senator, said:
“Today marks six years since the horrific Chanukah stabbing in the Town of Ramapo. Six people were brutally injured, and Rabbi Yosef Neumann tragically succumbed to his wounds. I will never waver in speaking out forcefully against antisemitism, hatred, and violence in all its forms.”
Michael Specht, Town of Ramapo Supervisor, stated:
“Six years ago today in Monsey, a hate-filled intruder entered a rabbi’s home during a Chanukah celebration and stabbed five people, murdering 72-year-old grandfather Josef Neumann in a heinous and senseless act of violence. Violent antisemitism has only increased since that time. As we honor Mr. Neumann’s memory, we stand with our Jewish community here at home and throughout the world.”
Mike Lawler, Congressman, added:
“Today marks six years since a stabbing attack occurred during a Chanukah celebration in Monsey. We must never forget the heroic actions of Josef Gluck, who confronted the attacker and saved many from further injury or death. Josef Neumann tragically lost his life due to the injuries he suffered on that horrific night.”
Aron Wieder, New York State Assemblyman, said:
“Today marks six years since the horrific antisemitic attack on Chanukah in Monsey, where five people were stabbed and we tragically lost Yosef Neumann, Hy”d. We honor his memory and the heroism of Josef Gluck, who confronted the attacker and saved lives.
“This act of hate strengthened our resolve to combat antisemitism. In the aftermath, as a Rockland County Legislator, I led the initiative to install License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras at all county exits — now managed by the Sheriff’s Office — to bolster public safety.
“We stand united against hatred, committed to keeping our Jewish community and all of Rockland safe. May the light of Chanukah prevail over darkness.”
The Agudath Israel of America – Rockland Region also issued a statement today marking the English-date anniversary. Shragi Greenbaum, of Agudath Israel Rockland Division, said the six-year milestone serves as a solemn reminder of both loss and responsibility.
“Today marks the sixth anniversary of the tragic Chanukah stabbing in Monsey. While the Yahrzeit of Reb Yosef Neumann, Hy”d, was observed last week in accordance with the Hebrew calendar, today marks the English-date anniversary of this unforgettable event that shook our entire community and underscored the security concerns of everyone in Rockland County. His neshama should have an aliyah,” Greenbaum said. “The need for security and vigilance has never been higher. Agudath Israel Rockland Regional Office assures the community that we are fully aware of current concerns and, bezras Hashem, remain steadfast in prioritizing everyone’s safety.” Greenbaum added that the organization continues to advocate aggressively at both the state and federal levels.
“We continue to work vigorously in Albany and Washington to secure increased funding for security to protect our institutions and neighborhoods. Locally, we remain in close contact with municipal leaders and law enforcement to ensure the highest possible level of vigilance.” Referencing recent discussions with town leadership, Greenbaum noted that Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht emphasized heightened law enforcement presence, stating that in light of rising global antisemitism and recent tragic events abroad, the Ramapo Police Department has further increased its already enhanced patrols and visibility. Town of Haverstraw Supervisor Howard Phillips echoed those concerns, noting that similar incidents have heightened awareness locally and that additional manpower has been made available to protect residents and institutions. Both supervisors, Greenbaum said, stressed that preparedness and community safety remain paramount and urged the public to remain alert. “See something, say something,” Greenbaum concluded. “Agudath Israel encourages everyone to stay vigilant, report suspicious activity, and support one another during these challenging times.”
The Ramapo Police Department also marked the English-date anniversary today, issuing a statement emphasizing the lasting lessons of that night:
“Much of how we police and protect our community today is shaped by the hard lessons learned on that horrific night. We cannot be complacent. We remain focused on protecting the public’s right to worship, gather, live, and pray without fear. That is our ongoing commitment.”
As the community reflects both on last week’s Hebrew-date commemoration and today’s English-date anniversary, leaders stressed that antisemitism and hate have no place in society and must be confronted wherever they appear. Six years later, the message remains clear: the Rockland County Jewish community continues to mourn together, stand together, and act together to ensure Jewish life can flourish safely and without fear.
