NEVER IS NOW ADL Summit in New York City

On March 3-4, 2025:
1) Steven Mandel MD VP NYM Community Outreach
2) Mark Goldstein
3) Daniel Gross – President Sutton Place Synagogue Men’s Club
4) Victor Goldsmith
5) Irv Varkonyi – Chair FJMC Combatting Anti-Semitism Committee
6) Allan Kahan – Immediate FJMC International Past President

All attended the NEVER IS NOW Summit in New York City. As representatives of the FJMC, the following is their reported observations on the events and experiences over those two days.

BACKGROUND
The Anti-Defamation League’s NEVER IS NOW, the world’s largest summit on antisemitism and hate, took place on March 3-4, 2025. It attracted 4,000 participants, including 1,000 high school students and representatives from 30 countries. This event highlighted the urgent need to address antisemitism and rallied advocates of justice and equality. Amid rising hatred and bigotry, the ADL’s mission to combat defamation of Jewish people and ensure fair treatment for all remains crucial.

• We heard from experts and leaders across academia, entertainment, and business who are united in the fight against antisemitism, bigotry, and all forms of hate.
• We participated in impactful programs and crucial conversations focused on combating antisemitism and anti-Zionism on campuses.
• Key strategies included fighting BDS through education, strengthening personal identity, building alliances, energizing the Jewish community, and mobilizing voters.

Educational Initiatives

• Participants learned tools to combat anti-Semitism and promote respectful conversations in schools and communities. ​
• Strategies included advocating for government action and using technology to protect youth from hate.
• The summit focused on fighting anti-Zionism and the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.

Youth Engagement

• High school students expressed a commitment to creating safe and respectful environments.
• They highlighted the importance of standing up to hate and supporting peers through respectful dialogue.
• The collective sentiment among youth was encapsulated in the phrase “JEWISH PRIDE.”

Community Reflection

• The rise of anti-Semitism was acknowledged as a significant concern, with a call for collective action.
• The document emphasizes the importance of solidarity and advocacy against all forms of hate.

Insights, thoughts and Quotes from the Summit

Key Speakers and Messages from Students

• Notable speakers included Gal Gadot, David Schwimmer, and various leaders from diverse backgrounds.
• “My name is Gal. I am a mother, a wife, a sister, an actress, a daughter, an Israeli, and I am a Jew.” Gal Gadot opened HER remarks at NEVER IS NOW!!! Simple powerful words that resonated deeply throughout the audience.
• David Schwimmer from Friends declared, “I wish you would speak up; silence is not an option.” urging his colleagues in the entertainment industry.
• High school students added their reflections on the Summit in a unified message:

o “We stand together because everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued.”
o “We support our peers in respectful conversation, as each of us can make a difference.”
o “We have the power to stand up to hate, and we’ve learned the tools to confront discrimination, bullying, and hate in all forms.”
o “listening to stories from students and parents, I couldn’t help but reflect not only on my son’s impending journey to college but also on my daughter, currently in 7th grade in New York City’s public school system. I had always envisioned campus life as a safe haven for intellectual growth, self-discovery, and vibrant dialogue”.

When asked to describe the day at the summit, they responded in unison:
“JEWISH PRIDE.”

This chant amplified the energy that change can be achieved through education and advocacy. It advocates for the cessation of violence, promotes living without fear, and emphasizes the significance of taking action regardless of any fears. It also emphasizes Jewish pride and resilience, turning hope into action and enhancing spiritual connection through faith.

“I channel my fear into hope and collective allyship, building relationships and
community. My solidarity with like-minded individuals strengthens my resolve to
advocate for change”.

“my wife and I have become increasingly aware of the importance of finding a
campus environment where my son can feel most comfortable and supported.”

One speaker’s words particularly struck home:
“We must empower our kids with knowledge, pride, and resilience.”

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, emphasized, “Antisemitism
is intensifying on college campuses.” It reminded me that education begins long
before our children set foot on a campus. It is cultivated in our homes, through
honest conversations about prejudice, identity, and standing up against hatred
wherever it surfaces.”

Leaving the conference, we felt a renewed responsibility to our children, family, and
community. Addressing antisemitism is about human dignity, civil rights, and the values
for the next generation. Our actions today will shape the culture our children inherit
tomorrow.