As UK Antisemitism Soars, ADL and Board of Deputies Launch Urgent Digital Resource for Schools
New York, NY, October 29, 2024 ... As cases of antisemitism soar in the UK, ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) and the Board of Deputies of British Jews have launched a new free digital resource to teach secondary school students about Jews, Judaism and antisemitism. This initiative addresses the urgent need for improved anti-hate educational programs in schools, especially given the worrying increase in antisemitic incidents among younger demographics.
Jewish Living Online (JLO), developed by the Board of Deputies of British Jews in partnership with ADL, is a comprehensive, authentic and engaging resource for students aged 11 and over. It provides information via multimedia content (including real British Jewish voices), discussion, and critical thinking questions and assessment tools.
The first iteration is designed to fit in with the standard curriculum for KS3 (11-14 years) and above. There are plans to expand the project to include Welsh, Scottish, and Northern Irish variants in compliance with their respective national guidelines and language requirements.
The unique technology stack was developed in-house by the Board of Deputies of British Jews and will form the foundation of future work by the Board and partners in the online education space. A future teacher training module for JLO is also planned.
ADL CEO and National Director, Jonathan Greenblatt, said:
"Unfortunately, the UK is no exception to the global tsunami of antisemitism we've witnessed over the past year. To combat this rise in hatred, ADL is proud to launch Jewish Living Online in partnership with the Board of Deputies of British Jews. This initiative marks the first of many similar programs we plan to implement globally, aimed at educating and empowering the next generation. By providing teachers and students with essential tools to understand and confront antisemitism, we are taking a vital step toward a future where antisemitism and hate have no place in our communities."
Board of Deputies President Phil Rosenberg said:
“In the context of an alarming rise in antisemitism in the UK, and in particular, a worrying increase in incidents among young people, the need for improved education in schools could not be more urgent. It is our firm belief that educating about antisemitism must also begin with a foundational knowledge of who Jews are as a people, what Judaism is, our history, language and culture. We developed our free Jewish Living Online resource together with our partners at ADL, and in consultation with leading educators, policy makers, school leaders, and researchers. This is a groundbreaking course which will both engage and inform the attitudes of the next generation.”
ADL is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913, its timeless mission is “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. A global leader in combating antisemitism, countering extremism and battling bigotry wherever and whenever it happens, ADL works to protect democracy and ensure a just and inclusive society for all. More at www.adl.org