STATEN ISLAND, NY -- Religious leaders from across Staten Island gathered in Willowbrook on Tuesday to condemn hate and celebrate religious freedom.

The interfaith leaders were joined by Borough President Vito Fossella, District Attorney Michael McMahon and Assemblymember Sam Pirozzolo, a Republican who represents Mid-Island, on the steps of Young Israel of Staten Island to express their support for protecting the rights of people to practice their faith freely.

Fossella tied the gathering to the celebration of Thanksgiving, and how the Pilgrims left England in search of religious freedoms.

“There’s talk about when the Pilgrims first came here, they were seeking religious freedom. They came together, and around this time of year, they celebrated a harvest to give thanks and gratitude fo

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