We write to all of those who know, and may be concerned about, the role Steven Markowitz has played in our community, with the desire to underscore our appreciation for his unwavering commitment to things Jewish.
Our words are not designed to comment on his political views or enter into a discussion as to who said what, when, but to make a resounding statement about his decades-long dedication to reinforcing Jewish values whenever and wherever they seem to be threatened.
Steve served devotedly as president of Temple Israel of Great Neck. Among the many contributions that he made to the work of his synagogue, he sought to use his post to bring the various movements of Judaism together in discourse.
Nor would Steve ever take second place to anyone in his commitment to the State of Israel—speaking up and speaking out whenever the state is assailed. He recognizes that many detractors of Israel are often anti-Semites in disguise, and he speaks eloquently in behalf of Jewry, here and everywhere.
A major factor in motivating us to share our thoughts with you has much to do with what Steve has accomplished in the last fifteen years in his work for the Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center, which he has chaired for the past seven years.
Under his brilliant leadership, the center has grown to be among the most significant institutions on Long Island, fighting religious and racial intolerance. It has been his vision to bring the Center into communities such as Great Neck, creating programs in the Great Neck schools to address anti-Semitism as well as all other forms of intolerance.
His goal is to reduce tensions that may exist among students of various cultural and religious backgrounds. He understands that when one group is under siege, all groups are at risk for the same abuse.
Steve performs an outstanding service for the Jewish community and beyond in his work at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, and we lend our names in support of all that he does through his steadfast focus on fighting intolerance wherever it raises its ugly head.
We sign this document as a vote of confidence for Steven Markowitz; we are unequivocal in our desire to see his efforts continue.
Faithfully and Respectfully,
Rabbi Marim Charry, Temple Israel of Great Neck
Rabbi Michael Klayman, Lake Success Jewish Center
Rabbi Howard Stecker, Temple Israel of Great Neck
Rabbi Robert S. Widom, Temple Emanuel of Great Neck
