The Jewish Community Relations Council of New York (JCRC-NY) lauded Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s proposed “Dignity for All Students” law. The proposal would require all public schools to notify the State Education Department (SED), the Division of Human Rights and the State Police if there is a pattern of discrimination or harassment, and to take steps to remedy the situation.

Michael S. Miller, Executive Vice President and CEO of JCRC-NY explained, “Governor Cuomo described his proposal as having two critical elements: building community and justice. The Governor spoke movingly of the rights of students to attend school without the fear of discrimination or harassment and he recommended concrete, statutory changes that will give state agencies the power to intervene to protect those being victimized. He clearly understands the problem and, once again, this initiative demonstrates his tremendous leadership.”

Michael Miller attended the Governor’s State of the State Address in Albany and had the opportunity to personally thank the Governor for his words and deeds.