A fifth-grade graduation at PS 682, The Academy of Talented Scholars in South Brooklyn, turned violent when a Jewish family was allegedly assaulted amid anti-Israel chants. The incident, now under investigation by the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force, has drawn attention to rising tensions and concerns about safety at public events.
Lana, a mother of two students at the school, described the chaotic scene that unfolded last week. Her Catholic husband, Johan, ended up in the hospital following a confrontation that began after a student waved a Palestinian flag and displayed a “Free Palestine” message on his graduation cap.
According to Lana, the altercation began when her family attempted to take pictures near the school banner. “We told them there was space for both families,” she recalled, but an older man began shouting pro-Palestinian slogans and cursing in Arabic. Johan tried to de-escalate, but the situation quickly escalated.
“I was punched in the head, and then there was a scuffle,” Johan recounted, noting that he was soon overwhelmed by multiple assailants. “Somebody was holding my leg. It was chaotic,” he said. Their 16-year-old son was also struck while trying to intervene, and Lana was attacked by a woman who pulled her hair and knocked her to the ground.
Johan was transported to Maimonides Medical Center for treatment. Ez-Al Dean Bazar, 26, was arrested in connection with the assault and later released. Initially not classified as a hate crime, the incident is now being investigated by the Hate Crimes Task Force.
City educator Tova Plaut emphasized the need to address antisemitism, stating, “Tolerating antisemitic views creates a toxic environment and leads to physical violence.” She called for stronger measures to protect Jewish students and families.
The Department of Education spokesman, Nathaniel Styer, expressed concern over the violence, noting, “Graduations should be times of celebration and joy. We strongly denounce anyone who acts violently during such events.” Styer added that both families reportedly engaged in aggressive behavior and that the department is working toward a resolution.
PS 682 is part of District 20, encompassing Bay Ridge, a neighborhood that has seen significant pro-Hamas protests. This incident underscores the heightened tensions and the urgent need for effective conflict resolution strategies in diverse communities.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring that similar incidents do not occur in the future, highlighting the importance of fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students and families.
