BROOKLYN — Seven Jews have been inducted into the Brooklyn Jewish Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025, honored Thursday in a ceremony at Brooklyn Borough Hall marking the 10th anniversary of the initiative celebrating Jewish achievement across the borough.
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The program, established by the Brooklyn Jewish Historical Initiative (BJHI), recognizes Brooklynites whose work in public service, culture, leadership, and community life has left a significant impact.
The 2025 honorees are:
Emily Austin — Recognized for her growing impact and influence within the Jewish and broader Brooklyn community.
Hon. Simcha Eichenstein — A public official serving the Brooklyn community and known for his advocacy in state government.
Henry Sapoznik — A cultural figure and historian celebrated for his groundbreaking work in Jewish music and preservation.
Hazan Basya Schechter — A spiritual leader, artist, and cultural contributor whose work bridges tradition and contemporary Jewish expression.
Debra Lea Schwartzben — Honored for her community service, volunteer leadership, and contributions to Jewish heritage initiatives.
Hon. David Yassky — A longtime public servant and legal figure whose work has shaped policy and civic life in Brooklyn.
NYPD Deputy Chief Richie Taylor — Recognized for his service to New York City and his leadership in strengthening community safety and outreach.
They join a distinguished roster of past honorees that includes public officials, jurists, authors, entertainers, and notable community figures — from a grandson of the Nathan’s Famous founder to legendary egg-cream preservationist Eli Miller.
BJHI co-chair Howard Teich has said the Hall of Fame was created to preserve and share the rich story of Jewish life and contributions in Brooklyn for generations to come.
I just found out I’m the youngest inductee into the Brooklyn Jewish Hall of Fame🥹🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/OKNptNYi9u
— Emily Austin (@emilyraustin) December 11, 2025
Lefty politicians yassky and eichenstein who’s consistent voting against torah values is an embarrassment to jews.
we all owe much hakaras hatov to Chief Raylor for keeping us safe so safe.