April 13, 2026
AJC New York was honored to welcome Council Member Virginia Maloney to AJC headquarters for an exclusive conversation with participants in the LEAD Fellowship, AJC’s flagship program for emerging leaders.
The discussion offered Fellows a candid look at Council Member Maloney’s path to public service, drawing on her experience across technology, public policy, and government. She reflected on the decision to enter elected office and how that background continues to shape her approach to leadership on the New York City Council.
A central focus of the conversation was the rise of antisemitism in New York City and the role of local government in addressing it. Council Member Maloney spoke about her engagement with the Jewish community in recent months, including her participation in public gatherings and ongoing advocacy efforts. She emphasized the responsibility of elected officials to respond thoughtfully and consistently to incidents of hate, and to approach these challenges with both urgency and care.
The conversation also explored what effective policymaking on antisemitism looks like at the city level. Moving beyond statements, Council Member Maloney highlighted the importance of practical, actionable approaches—grounded in collaboration and sustained engagement with affected communities. She also discussed her work as a member of the City Council’s bipartisan Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, underscoring the need for serious, cross-partisan cooperation on issues of communal safety.
→ Watch AJC New York Acting Director Brandon Pinsker’s give testimony at the inaugural meeting of the Task Force to Combat Antisemitism
In a forward-looking exchange, Fellows had the opportunity to engage directly on the role of advocacy organizations and individuals in shaping public policy. Council Member Maloney shared perspectives on what makes partnerships effective, emphasizing the value of clear communication, relationship-building, and constructive engagement. She encouraged participants to take an active role in civic life and offered practical advice on how to build meaningful relationships with elected officials.
The program reflected AJC New York’s ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of leaders and fostering thoughtful dialogue between policymakers and the communities they serve.
Learn more about the LEAD Fellowship.
