|
May 14, 2003
OU Expresses Relief and
Frustration at Mixed Verdict in Nelson Trial
The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations, the
nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish synagogue organization, today expressed a
mixture of relief and frustration upon the conviction of Lemrick Nelson
who was found guilty of violating the rights of Yankel Rosenbaum by
fatally stabbing him in August, 1991. Betty Ehrenberg, Director of
International and Communal Affairs, said, “Today’s conviction brings a
mixed sense of relief and frustration to the family of Yankel Rosenbaum
and to the Jewish community. What happened to Yankel Rosenbaum during the
Crown Heights riots of 1991 was a vicious crime that occurred only because
Yankel Rosenbaum was a Jew. The fact that this case has gone through three
trials has been a source of anguish for every law-abiding citizen. We are
profoundly disappointed that the jury did not hold Nelson directly
responsible for the death. Nelson clearly murdered Yankel Rosenbaum in an
act of racism and anti-Semitism.
“In the years since the riots, dialogue and communication have
substantially increased between the black and Chassidic communities in
Crown Heights. We hope that these efforts to bridge differences and to
foster mutual understanding will continue to grow in order to pay honor to
the memory of Yankel Rosenbaum and to teach that the only correct course
for the people of New York is to work together for peaceful co-existence
among all the diverse communities of our city.
“May the memory of Yankel Rosenbaum, z”l, be for a blessing to his family
and to all those who believe in justice.”
-30-
|
