DOE investigating allegations of antisemitic comments by Park Slope teacher
The allegations surfaced in a lawsuit filed on behalf of Jewish members of the Park Slope Food Co-op challenging the co-op's ban on Israeli goods.
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The New York City Department of Education says it is investigating allegations that a Park Slope elementary school teacher made antisemitic comments praising a Hamas leader.
The allegations surfaced in a lawsuit filed on behalf of Jewish members of the Park Slope Food Co-op challenging the co-op's ban on Israeli goods.
According to the lawsuit, Damien Neva, a teacher at P.S. 77 in Park Slope, played a leading role in the boycott effort and posted a message in a Signal group chat that said, "Long live Yahya al-Sinwar," referring to the Hamas leader accused of orchestrating the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.
Jewish leaders say the alleged comments are particularly concerning because Neva works in a classroom.
"Educators are supposed to be people who allow students to walk into their classroom every day feeling safe," said Moshe Spern, president of United Jewish Teachers. "How can anyone feel safe around someone who supports terrorism?"
Spern said he supports people's right to hold differing political views on the war in Gaza but argues that praising violence crosses a line.
"These are just the people we're aware of who have these viewpoints," Spern said. "People are questioning whether there are more and whether these viewpoints are making their way into classrooms."
Some community members have called for Neva's dismissal, although it remains unclear when he was last at the school or how long he has been employed there.
In a statement, a Department of Education spokesperson said: "Antisemitism and support for terrorist organizations have absolutely no place in our school system. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment for every student and member of our school community. This allegation has been reported and referred for investigation, in accordance with Chancellor’s Regulations."
Spern said some Jewish students and parents continue to feel uneasy in New York City schools and believes more work is needed to address antisemitism at the classroom level.
"It's not comfortable to be Jewish right now in the New York City schools," he said. "There are parents and students who don't feel safe."
As the anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack approaches, Spern said he hopes the focus remains on combating hate and ensuring all students feel secure in school.
"We have to remember that we are here to stay, and nobody is going to change that," he said.
