Community Garden Controversy in Queens

In a significant move, the anti-Israel community gardens in Queens have compelled new members to affirm their “solidarity with the oppressed and marginalized,” prompting legal actions regarding its operational status.

A judge recently halted the city’s attempt to revoke the garden group’s license, allowing the gardens to function for the time being, as indicated by court documents.

The previous leadership of the Sunset Community Garden faced criticism from Jewish residents in Ridgewood over 10 “Community Agreements.” Among the stipulations were restrictions against “violent behavior or rhetoric that expresses hatred in all forms,” alongside a dedicated area for “Palestinian poppies.”

On May 5, city officials cited violations of parks department guidelines when they initially revoked the group’s license.

Garden authorities were given until June 6 to vacate the land located at the intersection of Onderdonk and Willoughby Avenue in Ridgewood.

Local resident Sarah Schleter Moise expressed her discontent towards Kingo, identifying him as “Ludicrous” for supporting the garden’s continued operation.

The garden was later renamed Jardin de Santa Cecilia to honor Cecilia Gentili, a known supporter of the Latina Trans community. In response to the ruling, the group hailed the decision as “a lifeline for our community.”

Last year, the group criticized the city for attempting to “erase the respect” cultivated in memory of Gentili, framing it as a punishment against solidarity with Palestinians facing oppression.

In a statement, the group emphasized, “Pride is a riot, and this garden represents a home that cannot be taken from us.”

The case is set to return to court next month.

The garden’s leadership expressed hope that the ruling will become permanent, preserving the garden as a haven for individuals from queer, transgender, Black, indigenous backgrounds, and people of color.

The Parks Department responded by stating that it was unfortunate that the garden group has neglected rules that other community gardens adhere to. They reiterated their goal of ensuring that the Greenbum Community Garden is managed responsibly and remains open to all, regardless of background.