New Coalition Takes on Congressman King

NYCLU supporter and member Dr. Joe Volker.

The Nassau County and Suffolk County chapters on Saturday, May 21 joined their partners in the Long Island Neighbors for American Values coalition to rally against Rep. Peter King's anti-Muslim hearings.

About 60 supporters rallied in front of King's Massapequa Park office for religious freedom and against singling out Muslims for suspicion. They carried signs that read: "Let Freedom Ring, Stop the Hearings King!" and "Stop the Hearings, Stop the Hate."

In March, King made headlines when he called hearings in the House of Representatives on the so-called "radicalization" of the Muslim American community.

He plans to hold the next round of hearings on June 15. These hearings serve only to demonize Muslim residents, inflame existing tensions and harm communities.

The Long Island Neighbors for American Values coalition is made up of about 30 Long Island-based groups. It consists of social justice organizations, inter-faith groups, religious congregations, educators and individuals committed to social justice.

The coalition formed to respond to King's hearings and to other instances of anti-Muslim bias throughout Long Island and the nation. This was the coalition's first rally, but there will be many more to come!
 

Nassau County Chapter Director Samantha Fredrickson speaks at the rally.

Suffolk County Chapter Director Amol Sinha with supporters.

Suffolk County Chapter Board Member Charlotte Koons (center) with supporters.

Nassau County Chapter Legal Intern Jenna Atwell (center) with supporters.