A New York City Council member has made waves after wearing a dress in support of Israel to a Republican gala event Saturday evening.
New York Republican City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov was spotted wearing a glamorous blue and white dress emblazoned with the Israeli flag to the New York Young Republican Club Gala.
“Tonight, on the third night of Chanuka, I am at the @NYYRC Gala proudly wearing a dress emblazoned in the flag of Israel,” Vernikov wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. “So many Jewish New Yorkers & Jewish college students all over our country are afraid to display their Jewish identity, wear a Kipa, a Star of David, or express support for the great state of Israel.”
“We cannot be afraid! We cannot remain silent! Be Jewish, Be Loud, Be Proud!” Vernikov continued. “This is where we live and we will not be intimidated!”
Vernikov’s message of support comes as the U.S. has witnessed increased amounts of antisemitism since Hamas’ Oct 7. attack on Israel.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported seeing a 400% increase in antisemitic incidents in the aftermath of Hamas’ attack, according to an Oct. 25 press release.
“This dress was created by an incredible Project Runway winner & celebrity designer Irina Shabayeva who pulled it together in less than 24 hours,” Vernikov added. “Irina, I am beyond grateful for your talent and tenacity. God bless America & God bless our only true ally in the Middle East- Israel!”
Celebrities such as Selena Gomez and Carrie Underwood have worn dresses created by Shabayeva, according to Fox News.
The dress worn by Vernikov, a former member of the Democratic Party who was born in Ukraine, has drawn comparisons to the “Tax the Rich” dress worn by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) to the Met Gala in September 2021.