New York, NY, September 2, 2021 … The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) and ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) have agreed to form a partnership aimed at combating the alarming rise in antisemitic rhetoric and violence through education and advocacy.
This partnership will make ADL’s expertise and tools readily accessible to almost 600 USCJ-affiliated synagogues through the latter’s own vast media channels. ADL and USCJ will also deliver jointly designed educational materials to congregational members. They also will, in coordination with Secure Community Network, increase reporting and response to antisemitic incidents occurring at conservative synagogues.
“USCJ and its affiliate organizations stand firmly side by side with the ADL in our new partnership. This collaboration will provide the education and training for our 600 member congregations to raise the awareness necessary to respond to antisemitism on their home front " said USCJ CEO Rabbi Jacob Blumenthal.
“We are keenly aware at ADL that antisemitic incidents are on the rise in the U.S. and around the world,” said Jonathan A. Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director. “We believe that this partnership, which marries both ADL and USCJ’s vast expertise and resources, will make serious headway in combating the scourge of antisemitism through education, advocacy, incident reporting and community awareness, and ultimately turn the tide against hate.”
Designated ADL and USCJ representatives have also agreed to collaborate on future joint programs and offerings including webinars and developing joint resources for USCJ and the communities they serve.
During the conflict between Israel and Hamas in May 2021, ADL tracked a doubling of antisemitic incidents compared to the same period in 2020. ADL logged 251 incidents from May 11 through the end of the month, an increase of 115 percent. A total of 305 incidents were tallied across the U.S. for the entire month of May 2021.
About The United Synagogue Conservative Judaism (USCJ):
We strengthen synagogues. We are the network that ensures there are thriving centers of Jewish practice across North America, Israel, and beyond that celebrate both tradition and contemporary life. Together, we demonstrate what an authentic and dynamic Judaism looks like, inspire people to be a part of it, and advance its critical role in the world.