A Conversation with Melinda Katz Queens District Attorney, Sydney Altfield Teach NYS Executive Director and Sara Forman NYSN Executive Director, on public safety, addressing subway and antisemitic crimes, and exploring legislative solutions to strengthen prosecution efforts in Albany.

Biographys:

Melinda Katz – Queens District Attorney
Melinda Katz has served as Queens District Attorney since January 2020, the first woman to hold the office. She has focused on tackling gun violence, supporting victims of domestic violence and human trafficking, and solving cold cases. On her first day, Katz established a Conviction Integrity Unit, which has vacated 99 wrongful convictions, including cases with lengthy prison terms. She reformed plea bargains and created the Violent Criminal Enterprises Bureau to dismantle gangs, narcotics operations, and firearm networks. In 2023, her office led one of Queens’ largest gang takedowns. Born and raised in Queens, Katz earned her law degree from St. John’s University. She previously served in the New York State Assembly and City Council, leading efforts to protect vulnerable residents and revitalize the city post-recession. Before becoming District Attorney, she was Queens Borough President and worked in private law. Katz lives in Forest Hills with her two sons.

Sydney Altfield - Executive Director of Teach NYS
Sydney Altfield advocates for equitable government funding to ensure safe, high-quality, and affordable Jewish education. In 2024, her efforts secured an $88 million funding increase for nonpublic schools, including a $35 million increase for security funding and a brand new $5 million Art and Music reimbursement program. Sydney led the Westchester Unites campaign mobilizing 15,000 Jewish voters in the June congressional primary where George Latimer defeated incumbent Jamaal Bowman. She also spearheaded the Long Island Unites campaign, driving 75% voter turnout among Jewish voters in Nassau County’s general election. Named to the City and State Brooklyn Power 100 in 2024, Sydney is dedicated to amplifying the Jewish community’s voice through voting, lobbying, and advocacy.

Sara Forman - Executive Director, The New York Solidarity Network
Sara Forman is the Executive Director of the New York Solidarity Network (NYSN), a 501(c)4 membership organization focused on supporting causes and candidates who value the special relationship between the United States and Israel and the safety and well-being of the Jewish community. She is also the treasurer for Solidarity PAC, Inc., a New York-based state and local traditional political action committee that supports candidates and efforts that value New York’s Jewish community. Prior to taking the helm of NYSN, she was the state and local finance director for the east coast for EMILY’s List, the nation’s leading organization electing pro-choice Democratic women to office, where she helped elect over 100 women to state and local offices.

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