County Hosts Interfaith Forum Commemorating International Human Rights Day

County Executive Day Declares December Universal Human Rights Month In Rockland

NEW CITY, NY – On Tuesday, County Executive Ed Day & County Human Rights Commissioner Spencer Chiimbwe hosted a Human Rights Interfaith Forum in honor of International Human Rights Day. The event brought together community leaders, advocates, and residents to foster dialogue on the shared principles of respect, compassion, and justice that unite people of all faiths and backgrounds.

“Rockland County’s strength lies in its diversity,” said County Executive Ed Day. “This interfaith forum highlights the shared values that unite us and serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in safeguarding the rights and dignity of every individual."

The forum, held in the County’s Pomona Health Complex, was emceed by Paul Adler, Esq., a former Rockland County Civil & Human Rights Hall of Fame inductee, and featured a keynote address by Bishop John Bonnici, Episcopal Vicar for Rockland and Westchester Counties, who spoke passionately about the role of faith communities in addressing social inequities and building a culture of mutual respect.

Following the keynote, attendees engaged in a dynamic fireside chat moderated by Award-winning journalist Tara Rosenblum of News 12. The panel brought together esteemed leaders from Rockland County’s faith communities, including:

• Rabbi Ariel Russo, Congregation Sons of Israel in Nyack
• Rev. Melvin Mungin, Rockland Ministerial Alliance
• Imam Syed Ali, Masjid Darul Ehsan in Suffern

The panelists shared insights into the intersection of faith and human rights, exploring ways to collaborate on pressing issues such as combating discrimination, promoting inclusion, and addressing inequities.

Rockland County Executive Ed Day has officially proclaimed December as Universal Human Rights Month in Rockland County, reaffirming the County's commitment to protecting the dignity, equality, and inalienable rights of all its residents. This proclamation comes as part of a broader effort to celebrate and promote human rights during the month of December, inspired by the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. The proclamation and forum reflect the County’s ongoing dedication to fostering a just and equitable community. Residents are encouraged to participate in local initiatives and conversations that promote human rights throughout December and beyond.

Anyone who needs to file a complaint regarding human rights issues can contact the County Human Rights Commission at 845-364-3886.

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