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Pro-Palestinian Demonstrators Arrested in Brooklyn During Passover Seder Protest Near Chuck Schumer’s Home

In a bold display of activism, hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered near the home of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in Brooklyn on Tuesday evening, calling for an end to the United States’ military support of Israel. The protest, which coincided with the second night of Passover, resulted in the arrest of at least 100 protesters who blocked traffic in the neighborhood.

Despite Senator Schumer being in Washington at the time, the demonstrators rallied at Grand Army Plaza, just one block away from his Brooklyn residence. The event featured a circular banner representing a Seder plate, with the words “Jews say stop arming Israel” alongside traditional Passover foods.

Morgan Bassichis, a member of the progressive group Jewish Voice for Peace, addressed the attendees, emphasizing the significance of the protest during these “unusual times.” Following speeches, a portion of the crowd moved into the street, blocking traffic and prompting arrests by police officers.

The protest, organized by pro-Palestinian Jewish groups, aimed to send a message to Senator Schumer as the Senate prepared to vote on a $95 billion aid package, including significant funding for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. Stefanie Fox, executive director of Jewish Voice for Peace, highlighted the importance of opposing the atrocities committed with taxpayer dollars.

The demonstration underscored the growing divide between the United States and Israel, with Senator Schumer’s recent criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu adding to the tension. Attendees like Calvin Harrison expressed their commitment to justice and liberation, aligning their activism with the spirit of Passover.