New York, NY, May 9, 2014 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today welcomed a new law allowing all religiously observant Jews the ability to equally participate in New York State’s State and local primaries.

The first day to sign primary petitions was scheduled for June 3, which coincides with the first day of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. The law, introduced by New York State Sen. Simcha Felder and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, and signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, extends the deadline by five days to ensure equal participation by religiously observant Jews.

Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director, issued the following statement:

We welcome this new law ensuring that all religiously observant Jews may participate equally in New York’s election process while observing the Shavuot holiday. We appreciate Senator Simcha Felder and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver’s committed leadership on this issue and thank Governor Cuomo for signing the bill into law.

 Political participation is the cornerstone of democracy. Religious beliefs or observances should not stand in the way of New Yorkers’ robust engagement.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.  Follow us on Twitter @ADL_NY