Engel wins award for fighting anti-Semitism

The Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty named U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel the winner of its Fighting Hate and Anti-Semitism Award at a legislative breakfast last week.

Engel was recognized for his work in Congress as both chair of the House Foreign Affairs Commitee as well as his role with the House Anti-Semitism Task Force.

Engel received the award from Bronx borough president Ruben Diaz Jr.

“Combatting hate and anti-Semitism remains a huge priority of mine, especially in these trying times,” Engel said, in a release. “The rise of anti-Semitism cannot be ignored or swept under the rug, nor can the rise in Islamophobia, racism and other forms of hatred.

“We need to be clear that those who seek to tear us apart because of our religion, race or background are un-American, and have no place in our society.”

Also recognized at The Met Council breakfast was Jeffrey Moerdler, a lawyer who also volunteers his time as an EMT for the Riverdale chapter of Chevra Hatzalah Volunteer Ambulance Services, one of the largest volunteer ambulance service in the United States. He was the named volunteer of the year.

The Met Council on Jewish Poverty describes itself as the voice of the Jewish poor and the first line of defense for the Jewish community’s needs, according to its website.

Founded on Jewish values, the group serves anyone in need regardless of race, ethnicity or religion.