Amazing move: New bill would make displaying Terrorist flags a felony

A new bill introduced by Manhattan Democrats seeks to make displaying the flags of Hamas and Hezbollah a felony in New York. Following the deadly October 7 massacre by Hamas against Israel, Jewish communities in the city have been confronted with an alarming rise in the public display of flags associated with terrorist groups. Now, this legislation, backed by Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblyman Micah Lasher, aims to curb this disturbing trend.

The proposed "Stand Against Flags of Enemy Terrorists Act" would amend New York's existing hate symbol laws to criminalize the display of flags and emblems from foreign terrorist organizations, particularly when these symbols are used to harass or threaten individuals. Under the bill, displaying such flags could result in a felony charge, carrying a potential sentence of up to four years in prison.

Hoylman-Sigal expressed deep concern over the recent uptick in antisemitic acts, noting that symbols from terrorist organizations have been used to intimidate Jewish New Yorkers at synagogues, businesses, and even their homes. "Since the October 7th terror attack in Israel, we’ve witnessed a disturbing rise in antisemitic incidents here at home," he said. "No one should be allowed to threaten or harass a New Yorker because they’re Jewish or for any other aspect of their identity protected under state law."

For many Jewish New Yorkers, who have witnessed increasing violence and hostility since the October 7 attacks, this bill is a welcome move. Recently, incidents of anti-Israel protests have escalated, such as when Barnard College saw protesters occupy an administration building and attack security staff. Governor Kathy Hochul also canceled a City College event due to security concerns linked to similar tensions.

Eric Goldstein, CEO of UJA-Federation, called the bill a "necessary and sensible measure," stating that it would prevent the use of terrorist symbols as instruments of hate and intimidation. The bill, expected to be formally introduced soon, reflects a growing determination to protect communities from such hate-driven actions.