A graduation ceremony for fifth-graders in Brooklyn quickly turned violent resulting in a lawsuit against the city for $100 million by the family who was attacked. The incident occurred in Gravesend and was sparked by an altercation that escalated into a full-blown brawl.
On June 14th at approximately 10:45 a.m., an incident occurred at PS 682 in Gravesend.
During the ceremony, a student walked across the stage with a graduation cap that read “Free Palestine” and held a Palestinian flag. Lerner’s twin boys were also participating in the ceremony.
As the time came to take pictures, Lerner’s family stood next to the other student’s family. However, the exchange of words between the two families only intensified the situation.
According to Lerner, her husband attempted to de-escalate the situation. Still, suddenly, an individual from the opposing family reportedly struck her husband with a surprise punch and assaulted their teenage son who was with them.
The fight had already caused its impact by the time two teachers intervened and stopped it.
Lerner expressed that the graduation ceremony was filled with joy and excitement. They sang songs and watched beautiful videos before the unexpected happened. Unfortunately, going forward, Lerner’s children will always remember their fifth-grade graduation as the day their family was attacked, instead of a day meant for celebration.
26-year-old Ez-Al Dean Bazar faced charges of assault and was subsequently arrested.
Attorney Sanford Rubenstein has urged the district attorney’s office to consider charging the perpetrator with a hate crime and thoroughly investigate the involvement of others in the incident, as well as the individual who was arrested.
The NYC Department of Education has released a statement stating that they are looking into the situation.
“We condemn any violent or aggressive behavior during graduation ceremonies, which should be a time of happiness and celebration. According to the reports we have received from various witnesses, both families exhibited aggressive behavior. However, we are currently investigating the matter and working with the families to find a solution.”
The education department has a policy regarding graduation attire, which prohibits any political statement or activity that may cause disturbance.
