Last week, the Young Israel of Jamaica Estates (YIJE) hosted four courageous women, Anila Ali, Farhena Khorshed, Soraya Deen, Zebunnesa Zeba Zubair, and moderator Tatiana Kotlyarenko, International expert on gender-based violence and human trafficking.
The women’s message was loud and clear. These women want the Jewish community to know that they stand with them. They seek to represent South Asian women in calling to stop the attacks on the Jewish community, the rise in anti-Semitism and condemn Hamas’ terrorist actions on October 7.
The very-much welcomed guest speakers expressed to the packed YIJE ballroom that they will not be silent, and they are dedicated to stopping radical Islam, oppression of women, and the hatred of the Jewish people and Israel. The devout Islamic women explained that they pray five times a day, and in their prayers they “pray for Abraham’s family, knowing that the Jewish people are our cousins, Abraham’s family.” They spoke about the power of community and the importance of the Jewish community to act, as a collective whole, to support Israel in their war against terror.
The Muslim Women’s mission first began years ago when they felt ostracized by radicalized Muslims through the restrictions placed on them as women. They have since traveled all over the world, literally risking their lives to deliver their passionate message against radical Islam. Following the World Trade Center attacks on 9/11, these women and their communities felt the love and support of the Jewish community and now they want to be here to support the Jewish community during this precarious time.
YIJE’s Rabbi Dr. Dov Lerner thanked the women on behalf of the community for their support, solidarity, and courage. He also recognized the partnership and presence of NYC Councilman James Gennaro, and Queens Jewish Community Council Executive Director, Rabbi Mayer Waxman. Rabbi Lerner added “I pray that in opening our minds in search of allies wherever we can find them, we sow the seeds of a future peace for humanity, so that someday all our families can live in harmony under the canopy of heaven for many years to come.”
Having traveled to Israel and Jewish communities around the globe, these women are true warriors fighting for freedom, respect, and appreciation of all human beings. Like all those in attendance, they seek a future day when we can celebrate freedom for women everywhere, victory over radical terrorism, and a time when anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of prejudice will long be forgotten.
For more information about the Young Israel of Jamaica Estates, it’s Israel Action Committee, and its upcoming Solidarity Mission to Israel, write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.yije.org.
