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Despite the uproar, City Hall responded with what critics describe as a lenient disciplinary action. Sutherland was required to attend “multicultural training,” and a note was added to her permanent record, according to City Hall sources. Rez and other critics have slammed the response as inadequate, given the gravity of the situation.
“It’s extremely hypocritical that someone who supports the murder of anyone still has a job, much less in a department that plays a vital role in our city’s diversity efforts,” said Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, a Republican from Brooklyn.
The eyewitness who filmed the incident declined to report it to the authorities, citing fears of retribution amid rising antisemitic incidents in New York and a lack of confidence in law enforcement. “It’s a sad state of affairs when the victim doesn’t have trust in the NYPD or Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg to properly investigate hate crimes,” Rez said.
The incident is particularly controversial given Mayor Adams’ vocal support for Israel. Adams, who has frequently emphasized the importance of combating hate in the city, now faces questions about how his administration handles such behavior internally. A City Hall spokesperson defended the administration’s actions, stating, “Mayor Adams has been clear that hate has no place in our city, and the same – if not higher – standard should be held for our city’s more than 300,000 employees.”
Sutherland’s role involves helping plan events celebrating the city’s diverse communities. Her office has previously hosted Jewish heritage events, including one this year that featured Shoshan Haran, who was held hostage by Hamas and later released.
Yoav Davis, founder of Jews of NY, expressed dismay at the administration’s handling of the situation, saying, “It is especially disturbing to learn that an individual employed by the mayor’s office – particularly in a position meant to celebrate the city’s diversity – is directly connected to this culture of hate.”
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The incident has sparked broader discussions about antisemitism and accountability in government. Critics argue that the administration’s response undermines its credibility in promoting unity and addressing hate.
While Sutherland remains employed, calls for her termination continue to grow. The Mayor’s Office has announced mandatory multicultural training for all staff in her department, a move aimed at preventing future incidents. However, many argue this is insufficient and fails to address the root issues exposed by the controversy.
