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For The First Time Since October 7th - Birthright Israel Participants Return To Visit And Volunteer In Northern Israel By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 8, 2025 Birthright Israel is excited to announce the launch of its winter season, with a special milestone: for the first time since October 7th, participants will return to visit the northern regions of Israel. This week, the first groups have already begun touring the historic city of Safed, marking the return of Birthright trips to this iconic part of the country. Additionally, participants in the Birthright volunteering program will begin engaging in volunteer activities in northern towns within the next few weeks. The winter season, which will run through March 2025, is expected to bring over 300 groups from around the world to Israel, with 6,500 young Jewish adults participating in life-changing 10-day trips, internships, and volunteering opportunities. In 2025, Birthright Israel will celebrate its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone for one of the most impactful Jewish programs in history. Since its founding, more than 850,000 young Jews from across the globe have visited Israel through the program. The 25th anniversary will be commemorated with a series of events and announcements starting early next year. In addition to the traditional 10-day trips, Birthright Israel is preparing to welcome approximately 10,000 volunteers in 2025 through its expanding volunteering program. In response to the growing demand, the age limit for participation has been extended to 50 years old. This year alone, 8,500 volunteers participated in the program, underscoring the increasing interest in contributing to Israeli communities while deepening Jewish heritage connections. “Since the war began, we’ve been inspired by the remarkable resilience and unwavering determination of our participants to come to Israel,” said Gidi Mark, CEO of Birthright Israel. “Each day, I meet participants who are so happy to finally be here. They share how safe they feel and how deeply proud they are to be part of the Jewish people.”  Mark continued, “While the war has undoubtedly presented challenges, it has only underscored the vital importance of our mission. As we mark 25 years since our founding, Birthright Israel remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening Jewish identity, fostering a connection to Israel, and building a strong sense of community. These values empower college students and young adults to confidently address and combat the growing Antisemitism worldwide. I urge every young Jewish adult to apply as soon as possible. Whether it’s the gift of a 10-day trip, an internship, a fellowship, or a volunteer program, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with your heritage and make lasting memories.” In the meantime, Birthright Israel has announced that while anyone can submit an application, summer trips will drop on January 14th via its website, and applicants will be able to choose their trip at: www.birthrightisrael.com Photo: Participants with the Mayor of Safed, Yossi Kakon - Photo credit: Nehemia Rosenfeld, courtesy of Birthright Israel Previous Next

Slow Burn Theatre Company Presents "Parade": A Story Of A Newlywed Jewish Couple, Who Are Struggling To Make A Life In The Old Red Hills Of Georgia Photo Credit Broward Center for the Performing Arts Feb 18, 2025 Slow Burn Theatre Company presents “Parade,” a powerful and poignant musical revival based on the true story of the trial and lynching of Leo Frank, as part of its 2024/2025 Season supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale through Sunday, February 23rd in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Winner of the 1999 Tony awards for Best Score, Jason Robert Brown, who also wrote the lyrics and Best Book of a Musical, Alfred Uhry as well as the 2023 Tony for Best Revival of a Musical, “Parade,” co-conceived and directed on Broadway by Harold Prince, follows a newlywed Jewish couple, Leo and Lucille Frank, who are struggling to make a life in the old red hills of Georgia. When Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime, it propels them into an unimaginable test of faith, humanity, justice and devotion. Hailed as an “an essential American musical” by Variety, “Parade” is a “phenomenal production that feels more poignant and powerful than ever,” according to Entertainment Weekly. Time Out New York writes, “What you hear at this Parade…will echo for a long time to come.” Directed by Slow Burn Theatre Artistic Director and Carbonell Award winner Patrick Fitzwater and presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), Slow Burn’s riveting and gloriously hopeful production features lead actors Justin Albinder* (Leo Frank) and Mikayla Cohen (Lucille Frank) joined by Kevin Patrick Martin* (Hugh Dorsey), Michael Hunsaker* (Britt Craig), Erik Schark* (Judge Roan/Old Soldier), Jessica Balton (Mary Phagan), Joel Hunt (Frankie Epps), Kareema Khouri* (Minola “Minnie” McKnight/Angela), Chaz Rose* (Newt Lee/Jim Conley/Riley), Michael Materdomini (Governor John Slanton), Landon Summers (Tom Watson/Detective Starnes), Ana Marie Calise (Mrs. Phagan), Nolan Montgomery (Young Soldier/Fiddlin John/others), Bridget Rose Pirrota (Iola Stover), Erica Gouldthorpe (Monteen/others), Sofie Poliakoff (Essie/others), Allyson Rosenblum (Sally Slanton), Steven Ross-Dybash (Mr. Peavy), Eli Jacobson (Officer Ivey/others), Austin Gladstone (Luther Rosser/others), Elizabeth Sackett (Nurse/others), Sam Hoffman (Mr. Turner/others) and Sara Sun Park (Nina Formby/others). The creative team features direction and musical staging by Fitzwater joined by Music Director Travis Smith, Lighting Designer Eric Norbury, Scenic Designer Nikolas Serrano, Costume Designer Rick Peña, Technical Director Timothy Dickey, Production Stage Manager Jeffry George* and Assistant Stage Manager Jolie Rubinchik*. Single tickets to Slow Burn Theatre’s 2024/2025 Season are on sale now. Supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale, the season continues in the new year with “Something Rotten!” from Saturday March 29th – Sunday, April 13th and “The Bodyguard The Musical” from Saturday June 7th – Sunday, June 22nd. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter - And at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with #BrowardCenter . Major support of Slow Burn Theatre Company is provided by the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners. Sponsored in part by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale. Student and community complimentary tickets are subsidized and underwritten by the Salah Foundation and the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation. The Broward Center 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or visit Slow Burn Theatre Company’s website at: http://slowburntheatre.org/ Previous Next

“The Abandonment Of The Jews” At 40: A Book That Saved Lives By Rafael Medoff Jan 7, 2025 This month marks the fortieth anniversary of the publication of David S. Wyman’s The Abandonment of the Jews, a book that changed the way we think about our nation’s history—and also saved lives. That is a rare achievement. Wyman (1929-2018), a Harvard-trained historian and grandson of two Protestant ministers, did not set out to write about the Holocaust. But he was puzzled by the reluctance of other scholars to confront the question of how America responded to the Nazi Genocide, so he decided to explore it himself. The Abandonment of the Jews: America and the Holocaust 1941-1945, was published by Pantheon in November 1984. Professor Wyman often spoke about how difficult it was for him, as a Christian, to find himself face to face with evidence of the meager response by American Christians, including our elected leaders, to news of the Holocaust. Sometimes he “cried for days” and had to take a break from his research. He said he “had been brought up with the belief that at the heart of Christianity is the precept that, when people need help, you should provide it.” Prior to the publication of The Abandonment of the Jews, the widespread assumption among the American public was that there was little or nothing the Roosevelt Administration could have done to save Jews from the Holocaust. Professor Wyman’s meticulous research demonstrated that there were many ways the U.S. could have aided European Jewish refugees, without interfering with the war effort or undermining America’s Immigration Laws. He documented how President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his State Department suppressed news about the Holocaust and ignored opportunities to rescue refugees. He exposed how U.S. planes struck within a few miles of the Auschwitz Gas Chambers—yet failed to bomb the railways and bridges leading to the camp, or the mass-murder machinery itself. The Abandonment of the Jews quickly rose to the New York Times best-seller list, and reviewers were nearly unanimous in their acclaim. “We will not see a better book on this subject in our lifetime,” Professor Leonard Dinnerstein concluded. Professor Hasia Diner wrote that Abandonment “systematically demolishes often repeated excuses for inaction.” The Abandonment of the Jews won numerous prizes, went through seven hardcover printings and multiple paperback editions, and was translated into German, French, Hebrew, and Polish. Most remarkably, the book also played a key role in the rescue of Jews from Ethiopia in 1985. A secret agreement between Israel and Sudan in 1984 had enabled Israel to begin airlifting tens of thousands of Jews from an area along the Ethiopian-Sudanese border. But an overly eager American Jewish journalist rushed to publish the scoop, prompting Sudan to suddenly halt the airlifts in January 1985. That left some 800 Ethiopian Jewish refugees stranded at the border. A team of Jewish activists, including Los Angeles Jewish Publisher Phil Blazer and Nate Shapiro of the American Association for Ethiopian Jews, flew to Washington to seek U.S. intervention. In meetings with members of Congress and Vice President George H.W. Bush, they distributed copies of The Abandonment of the Jews and pleaded with them not to repeat the indifference of the Roosevelt years. Senators Alan Cranston (D-California) and Rudy Boschwitz (R-Minnesota) and Congressmen Stephen Solarz (D-New York) and John Miller (R-Washington) spearheaded the bipartisan effort to press the Reagan-Bush Administration for action. Learning that Vice President Bush was scheduled to visit Sudan on diplomatic business shortly, Representative Miller went to see him. Citing The Abandonment of the Jews, Miller told Bush “that this was a chance to write a very different history than the history of America’s response to the Holocaust.” Sudan might refuse to let the Israelis land on its soil, “but Sudan would not be able to say no to the United States–if our government insisted,” Miller argued. On March 22nd, 1985, shortly after Bush’s meetings in Sudan, a fleet of U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules transport planes airlifted the 800 refugees from Sudan to Israel. The Vice President subsequently sent Professor Wyman a handwritten note of thanks and made a point of saying in a speech afterwards, “Never again will the cries of abandoned Jews go unheard by the United States Government.” CNN Anchor Wolf Blitzer, who at the time was the Washington correspondent for the Jerusalem Post, wrote: “Today’s direct and very active cooperation by the U.S. Government in helping to rescue Ethiopian Jews is in marked contrast to the documented abandonment of European Jewish refugees before and during World War II…[which has been] well-documented in David S. Wyman’s recently published book, The Abandonment of the Jews.” In 2008, Professor Wyman visited an Israeli air force base, where he met Major-General Amir Eshel, who was involved in the 1985 airlift operation, and Moshe Gadaf and Ami Farradah, who, as eight year-olds, were among the Ethiopian Jewish children who were rescued. Wyman described meeting them as one of the most moving experiences of his life. Forty years later, The Abandonment of the Jews remains the definitive study of America’s response to the Nazi Genocide. A handful of polemicists and pundits have tried to excuse FDR’s Holocaust record, but additional research in the field in recent years has only reconfirmed Professor Wyman’s original conclusion: President Roosevelt, “the era’s most prominent symbol of humanitarianism, turned away from one of history’s most compelling moral challenges.” Photo Taken by Author Dr. Medoff is Founding Director of The David S. Wyman Institute for Holocaust Studies and Author of more than 20 books about Jewish history and the Holocaust. His latest is Cartoonists Against Racism: The Secret Jewish War on Bigotry, coauthored with Craig Yoe. Previous Next

Junior League Of Boca Raton - Hosts Talk By Heather Hirsch, MD, Expert On Menopause And Perimenopause By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 The Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) will host a talk featuring Heather Hirsch, M.D. M.S., M.S.C.P., Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Founder of the Menopause & Midlife Clinic at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and now CEO of the Health by Heather Hirsch, M.D. Telemedicine Collaborative. Dr. Hirsch, who has appeared on Oprah Daily and in other national broadcasts, will speak about Perimenopause and Menopause. The talk will take place on January 23rd, 2025, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRIC), 500 T Rex Avenue, Boca Raton. The event is open to the community. There is no charge to attend the talk, but guests must register in advance. “Women take care of their families, their co-workers, and their community first, often neglecting their own health,” said Nikki Stelzer, President of The Junior League of Boca Raton. “We launched this year-long initiative with Baptist Health to encourage our members, as well as women all across our community, to focus on their own health and wellness.” Attendees will explore the stages of Perimenopause and Menopause in a special workshop led by Dr. Heather Hirsch, a leading Menopause expert in the field. Whether attendees are experiencing these changes, preparing for them, or supporting a loved one, this event offers essential guidance and is an opportunity to learn from a trusted voice in women’s health. Dr. Hirsch is Board-Certified in Internal Medicine, completed a fellowship at Cleveland Clinic, and founded the Menopause Clinic at Brigham and Women's Hospital while serving as faculty at Harvard Medical School. Her fellowship training included an emphasis on scholarly activity, the development of women's health curriculum, clinical research, and leadership. She is Certified by the Menopause Society and is a member of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health. Dr. Hirsch's educational skills can be seen across her large Social Media accounts, invited grand rounds, media talks, and her down-to-earth, practical approach to leading women to live empowered and healthy lives. To register, call The Junior League at: 561-620-2553 About The Junior League of Boca Raton Throughout the year, JLBR members contribute more than 35,000 volunteer hours and donate more than $250,000 to support the organization’s mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. The Junior League currently focuses on two community issues, Child Welfare and Non-Profit Support. To learn more about the JLBR, please contact the JLBR office at: 561-620-2553. Or visit: www.JLBR.org Please credit Dr. Heather Hirsch. Previous Next

80 Years Of Remembrance: On January 27th, 1945, The Nazi Concentration Camp Of Auschwitz Was Liberated By The Soviet Red Army www.gov.il - Naomi Levy, GPO (Government Press Office) Feb 18, 2025 Pictured: The railway tracks used to transport Jews to the Auschwitz death camp in Poland. Credit: Moshe Milner, GPO During World War II (1939-1945), multiple Concentration Camps were established by the Nazis across Europe, the "Final Solution" to a problem they saw as unbearable: the Jewish existence. Adolf Hitler believed that eradicating Jews from the world would make it a better place, enforcing a monstrous ideology on the minds of influenceable men. Thousands blindly followed this narcissistic leader into discarding all human values, and unapologetically unleashed hell upon millions. Jewish men, women, and children were deported from their homes by their very own neighbors. Transported by the hundreds on trains, the innocent victims made their way to an inevitable doom – the Holocaust. Among the major camps were Chelmno, Belzec, Sobibor, Treblinka, and Auschwitz, which was divided into three sections: Auschwitz I – the beginning of the end: Jewish prisoners were separated from their loved ones upon arrival, forming groups by age and sex. There, the victims were given a striped prison uniform, their heads were shaved, and their arms were tattooed with numbers – replacing all traces of real identity. Auschwitz II Birkenau – an Extermination Camp where families were tortured and then wiped out completely. Most of the prisoners were executed in gas chambers. Auschwitz III Monowitz – a Labor Camp in which Jews were forced to work until abuse, exhaustion, or starvation claimed their lives. Over a million Jews were executed in Auschwitz between 1942 and 1944; very few survived to tell their stories. 80 years ago, antisemitism led to the greatest genocide of all time, resulting in the deaths of some six million Jews - a historical tragedy which impacted the fate of an entire people forever. 80 years later, antisemitism is still very much present and felt across the globe. Although Jewish people have tried assimilating, and are accepted in many countries, the insecurity is permanent; the fear of being targeted remains. The one place Jewish communities feel at home is the State of Israel. Every year, thousands of people move to the only democratic country in the Middle East in hopes of finding the exact same thing our ancestors were deprived of 80 years ago: the right to live freely and authentically in this world. As we commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we mourn the lives of those who were brutally murdered and those who never saw the light of day. Entire generations were erased, binding the Jews of today to never forget what was, and what could have been. Never Again. Naomi Levy, GPO (Government Press Office) Previous Next

Jewish Kids In Europe, Latin America and Asia Highlight Plight Of Hostages In Gaza (JNS Staff Report) Jan 7, 2025 Jewish children across the globe joined together this Chanukah to raise awareness of the Israeli hostages being held by Palestinian terrorists in Gaza since the Hamas led massacre in southern Israel on October 7th, 2023. Children in Latin America, Europe and Asia learned about the hostages’ plight and lit Chanukah candles arranged in the shape of the yellow ribbon that has come to symbolize the captives. The initiative was spearheaded by schools supported by the Yael Foundation, a philanthropic organization working in 35 countries and impacting 13,000 Jewish students. “The suffering of the hostages and their families must be acknowledged and addressed worldwide, especially within the Jewish community. Chanukah, a time deeply rooted in Jewish solidarity, is the perfect occasion to bring attention to this tragic situation,” said Chaya Yosovich, CEO of the Yael Foundation. “As an organization that partners with schools globally, we aim to instill the Jewish value of pidyon shvuyim, the imperative to act for the release of fellow Jews who are captured. This is our way of contributing to one of the most urgent Jewish challenges of our time,” she added. ‘Their hearts remain with those suffering in captivity’ In Odessa, Ukraine, students at the Tikva Children’s Home—an orphanage and school supported by the Yael Foundation—created a heartfelt video. The children, many of whom are refugees from the ongoing war in Ukraine, sang the iconic Hebrew song “HaBayta” (“Back Home”), and formed a human yellow ribbon while waving Israeli flags and holding photos of the hostages. “It is more important than ever to remember the Israeli hostages held by Hamas,” said Refael Kruskal, CEO of the Tikva Children’s Home. “Our students have suffered greatly because of the war in the Ukraine, but their hearts remain with those suffering in captivity in Gaza. Our greatest prayer is for their safe return, and we hold this hope close during this Chanukah season.” Rabbi Shmuel Kot of the Jewish Education Center in Tallinn, Estonia, said: “We are grateful to the Yael Foundation for the wonderful opportunity to participate in these meaningful Chanukah campaigns, highlighting both Jewish identity and solidarity with the hostages.” Founded in 2020 by Uri and Yael Poliavich, the foundation is guided by the belief that every Jewish child, no matter where they live, deserves access to high-quality Jewish and general education. Photo : Children from the Hatikvah School in Barcelona call to free the captives held by terrorists in the Gaza Strip. Previous Next

Temple Sinai Of Hollywood Presents An Evening With DuDu Fisher & Friends By Alan Goch - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 World renown Israeli Cantor and entertainer DuDu Fisher will perform in concert at Temple Sinai of Hollywood on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Fisher will be joined by Cantor Dimitry. General Admission is $72 and includes one seat; VIP Tickets are $360 and include one ticket, a reserved parking spot, meet-and-greet champagne dessert reception and a listing in the event program.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, including Community Sponsor at $500, which includes a listing in the event program and Event Sponsor at $1,000 which includes 4 tickets, a reserved parking spot, meet-and-greet champagne dessert reception and a listing in the event program.

Bid on items in the Online Auction which went live January 1st, 2025, and will culminate the evening of the concert. All proceeds benefit Temple Sinai of Hollywood’s community programs and services. The synagogue is located at 1400 North 46th Avenue in Hollywood. 
To purchase tickets or for more information, visit: www.SinaiHollywood.org . Or call: (954) 987-0026, Extension#: 1. Or email: info@sinaihollywood.org Photo: DuDu Fisher. Photo courtesy of DuDu Fisher Previous Next

$14 Million raised at United Hatzalah’s Miami Gala By Linda Chase and Alan Goch - Jewish Connection News Jan 8, 2025 The atmosphere was energetic and inspiring at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort and Spa in Aventura as former World Boxing Champion Floyd Mayweather announced that he was donating $1 Million to United Hatzalah of Israel. Mayweather made his pledge as he received United Hatzalah’s Champion of Israel Award during the life-saving organization’s annual Miami Gala. $14 Million was raised during the event that hosted 1,700 supporters. The gala’s co-chairs were Margo Cohen and Dr. Phil Frost. Mayweather was recognized for his unwavering support of Israel and Hatzalah, especially during the war against Hamas. Recently, Mayweather donated 100 bullet proof helmets and vests to protect volunteers who continue to respond to wartime attacks. “You are all fighters. I am a former fighter, but we keep fighting every day,” said Mayweather at the United Hatzalah Miami Gala. “Eli [Beer], you and United Hatzalah are doing such a great job. I will be here until the casket drops, supporting you and standing behind you as long as there are people who need your help.” In honoring Mayweather, Eli Beer, Founder and President of United Hatzalah said, “Floyd Mayweather has shown the world what it truly means to be a champion; not just in the ring, but in life. In United Hatzalah’s most trying hours, Floyd stood with us, providing essential equipment to protect our volunteers and sending a powerful message of solidarity to the Jewish people. We are deeply grateful for his support of our organization, our volunteers and of Israel.” Mayweather gifted philanthropist Dr. Miriam Adelson with a diamond necklace in the shape of Hatzalah’s logo. “Dr. Miriam Adelson is not just a good woman, but a great woman,” Mayweather added. Dr. Adelson, who wore a dress designed by designer Tovale Chasin, presented Chasin with the Fashion Ambassador Award. “We all saw United Hatzalah ambulances go into the kibbutzim on October. The spirit of the volunteers is that they don’t give up,” Dr. Adelson added. Other highlights during the evening included Jeanie and Jay Schottenstein and Family, being presented with the Humanitarian Award by Amy and Bob Book and Lili Montague and Keith Leight, grandchildren of Dr. Lynn and Paul Leight, announcing the inauguration of the L’Dor V’Dor initiative to bring in the younger generation to support United Hatzalah. Part of the funding from this Gala will go towards the Leight Initiative. Following the dinner and program, Jay Leno, a long-time supporter of Israel and Honorary Board Member of United Hatzalah provided the featured entertainment for the evening, along with Mem, the popular masked Israeli singer, who made a surprise visit to the event after serving on the frontlines in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). For more information about United Hatzalah, visit: www.israelrescue.org Photo: Boxing Champion Floyd Mayweather is joined by Eli Beer, Founder and President of United Hatzalah of Israel and Dr. Miriam Adelson at the gala in Miami. Photo by Goksun Ergur/United Hatzalah Previous Next

The Brandeis Center and Jewish Americans for Fairness in Education Agree with Harvard to Settle Title VI Litigation Photo Credit Kris Snibbe / Harvard University Feb 18, 2025 Today, Plaintiffs The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law and Jewish Americans for Fairness in Education (“JAFE”) announced that they have reached an agreement to resolve their claims against Harvard University. As part of the settlement, Harvard has agreed to implement a series of steps, building on measures that Harvard has undertaken over the past year as a part of its commitment to combating antisemitism. Harvard and the Brandeis Center look forward to working together in these efforts. The agreement resolves claims raised by the Brandeis Center and JAFE on behalf of Harvard students in a federal lawsuit. Under the agreement, and consistent with Harvard’s existing Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying Policies (“NDAB”), which prohibit discrimination on the basis of ancestry, religion, national origin, or political beliefs, Harvard will incorporate the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (“IHRA”) definition of antisemitism including accompanying examples applied in the manner described in guidance issued by the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (“OCR”) in 2021 and 2024. Harvard will accordingly consider in the same manner the IHRA definition and examples when evaluating NDAB complaints raising allegations of anti-Semitic discrimination or harassment. In addition, Harvard shall post online a Frequently Asked Questions document (“FAQ”) relating to the NDAB, which shall be available online in the same location as the NDAB, clarifying that both Jewish and Israeli identity are covered by the NDAB; that the NDAB include among their protected categories shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics as well as political beliefs; and that the IHRA definition will be used as described above. The FAQ will include the following statement: “For many Jewish people, Zionism is a part of their Jewish identity. Conduct that would violate the Non- Discrimination Policy if targeting Jewish or Israeli people can also violate the policy if directed toward Zionists. Examples of such conduct include excluding Zionists from an open event, calling for the death of Zionists, applying a ‘no Zionist’ litmus test for participation in any Harvard activity, using or disseminating tropes, stereotypes, and conspiracies about Zionists (e.g., ‘Zionists control the media’), or demanding a person who is or is perceived to be Jewish or Israeli to state a position on Israel or Zionism to harass or discriminate.” The FAQ will include a list of examples of conduct that, provided that the required elements under the policy are met, may constitute prohibited discriminatory treatment or discriminatory harassment in violation of the NDAB. Under the agreement, Harvard will also reaffirm at least annually that antisemitism will not be tolerated and that, consistent with the OCR Guidance, as described in further detail above, Harvard will consider the IHRA definition of antisemitism and examples in applying the NDAB. Harvard will also prepare a public annual report for the next five years that covers Harvard’s response to discrimination or harassment based on Title VI-protected traits (with a lookback at disciplinary responses to NDAB complaints based on allegations of antisemitism since October 1, 2023). These reports will catalog Harvard’s response to complaints based on allegations of antisemitism, consistent with FERPA, and assess Harvard’s treatment of such complaints against its treatment of complaints based on allegations of other forms of bias. To carry out these undertakings, Harvard will hire a designated individual for Harvard’s Office for Community Conduct (“OCC”) who will have responsibility for consulting on all complaints of antisemitism and for supervising the preparation of the annual reports required under the settlement. Harvard has also agreed to provide expert training on combating antisemitism and the IHRA definition for OCC staff involved in reviewing complaints of discrimination, and Harvard will broadly promote annual training for the University community focused on recognizing and combating antisemitism. The OCC Director will also ensure that Title VI and Harvard’s NDAB policies will be enforced equally, applying a single standard for all students, including Jewish and Israeli students. Harvard will also invest additional academic resources to study antisemitism and will establish an official partnership with a university in Israel, in addition to programs the University currently has in place with Israeli universities. Harvard will provide an opportunity for the Brandeis Center to host a variety of events on campus. In addition, Harvard Kennedy School will provide an opportunity for three alumni of that school to organize and host an on-campus event, consistent with the relevant guidelines that apply to active student groups, on the substantive issues of Israeli Jewish democracy. As part of this settlement with Brandeis Center and JAFE, which includes monetary terms, Harvard has not admitted to any wrongdoing or liability. A Harvard University spokesperson said, “Today’s settlement reflects Harvard’s enduring commitment to ensuring our Jewish students, faculty, and staff are embraced, respected, and supported. We will continue to strengthen our policies, systems, and operations to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate and ensure all members of the Harvard community have the support they need to pursue their academic, research and professional work and feel they belong on our campus and in our classrooms.” Kenneth L. Marcus, Founder and Chairman of the Brandeis Center and the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education stated, “We are heartened that Harvard has agreed to take numerous important steps necessary to creating a welcoming environment for Jewish students. When fully and faithfully implemented, this agreement will help ensure that Jewish students are able to learn and thrive in an environment free from antisemitic hate, discrimination, and harassment. We thank those within Harvard, including administrators, faculty, students, and alumni, who have worked tirelessly to achieve this result. In turn, we look forward to working with Harvard on the important work in this agreement to ensure that the rights of all students are protected.” Previous Next

American Jewish Committee (AJC) Miami and Broward Jan 7, 2025 Was honored to host a Diplomatic Lunch Meeting with Levente Magyar, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary and H.E. Szabolcs Takács, Ambassador of Hungary to the United States. Photo credit to US Embassy of Hungary- Lilla Hillier Previous Next

A Lifeline Of Compassion & Strength: Ensuring Every Jew Confronting Illness Or Crisis Is Embraced with Unwavering Support Pictured: “Wish at the Wall makes this dream a reality, showing them that despite their medical challenges, they are capable of incredible things.” Feb 18, 2025 Chai Lifeline is an international support network, providing social, emotional, and practical assistance to children, families, and communities impacted by medical crises and trauma through a variety of year-round programs and services. Their vision is to ensure every Jew confronting illness or crisis is embraced with compassion, strength, and unwavering support. Journey of Resilience This year’s trip will feature the introduction of the Rosenberg Jerusalem Experience and holds special significance, as it was postponed in 2024 due to the outbreak of war following the tragic events of October 7th. In addition to visiting Israel’s iconic landmarks such as the Kotel, Masada, and the Dead Sea, participants will engage in meaningful encounters, including meeting wounded IDF soldiers at Sheba Medical Center, paying tribute to the victims of October 7th at the Nova Music Festival site, and hosting a barbecue for soldiers. They will also visit “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv to show support for families of hostages. “This trip is so much more than a journey to Israel; it is a celebration of resilience and hope,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “The teens on this trip have faced unimaginable challenges, and through this program, we are honored to provide them with a life-changing experience that brings joy, confidence, and connection to their heritage. We are deeply grateful to the Hartman and Rosenberg families for their generosity in making this program possible.” Accompanied by wheelchairs, walkers, and respirators, these teens and their parents will experience Israel’s rich culture and spirituality. The trip alternates annually between teenagers who have completed cancer treatment and those living with chronic illnesses or disabilities, ensuring each group receives the specialized support they need. Joining the group this year is Rabbi Shay Schachter, Camp Simcha Rabbi and a prominent advocate for hostage families, who will provide spiritual guidance and support throughout the trip. “For many of these teens, a trip to Israel would otherwise be impossible,” said Rabbi Scholar. “Wish at the Wall makes this dream a reality, showing them that despite their medical challenges, they are capable of incredible things.” Yehudah Zellermaier Appointed As Director Chai Lifeline, is pleased to announce the appointment of Yehudah Zellermaier, LCSW, as the new Director of its Greater New York region. Zellermaier brings over 15 years of experience in social services and nonprofit leadership to the organization. Prior to joining Chai Lifeline, Zellermaier served as Managing Director of the Brooklyn Hub at the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, where he significantly expanded programs and services, overseeing the buildout and operations of the new social services center in Boro Park. His extensive experience also includes roles as Executive Director of the Boro Park Chesed Center and Director of Operations at the Met Council, where he managed multiple large programs serving thousands annually. “We are thrilled to welcome Yehudah to the Chai Lifeline family,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “His proven leadership and dedication to community service align perfectly with our mission to support children and families facing serious illness. We look forward to the positive impact he will have in the New York region.” In his new role, Zellermaier, who holds a Master of Social Work from New York University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, will lead a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers to enhance Chai Lifeline’s comprehensive support programs, including case management, crisis intervention, hospital services, meal delivery, transportation, i-Shine after school programming, and a range of services for children and families confronting serious illnesses. “I am honored to join Chai Lifeline and contribute to its vital mission,” said Zellermaier. “I look forward to working with the team to provide compassionate support to families in our community during their most challenging times.” Chai Lifeline is an international support network providing emotional, social, and practical assistance to children and families impacted by illness and crisis. For more information, visit: www.chailifeline.org . Yehudah Zellermaier will serve as Chai Lifeline New York’s Regional Director. Previous Next

Strengthening Communities Across Israel: 7,495 Volunteers Impact Over 122,000 Lives Pictured: Members of MAKOM communities in Israel are people who participate in mission-driven communities that work to improve society. Feb 18, 2025 A Jewish National Fund-USA Grassroots Initiative dedicated to strengthening communities across Israel, has released new data showcasing its transformative impact on the country’s northern and southern regions. According to the latest report, its initiative has mobilized 7,495 active community volunteers, who in turn serve over 122,600 beneficiaries through educational, cultural, and social welfare programs. These dedicated community members—comprising educators, secular and religious leaders, students, and artists—work together to assess local needs, develop programs, and create sustainable solutions that foster resilience and unity. Key Impact Highlights: • Be’er Sheva leads in impact with nearly 1,000 volunteers supporting 42,000 beneficiaries, including students, educators, and members of the Mountain Jewish and religious Zionist communities. • Kiryat Shmona and Sderot emerge as strongholds of resilience, with 290 and 640 active members, respectively, reaching thousands through social welfare and education programs. • Diverse community engagement: Jewish National Fund-USA's programs support Druze communities in towns like Beit Jan and Yanuh-Jat, Ba’aley Tshuva (returnees to religious observance) in cities like Katzrin and Ma’alot, and artists and educators throughout Israel’s periphery. • From youth empowerment to crisis support, Jewish National Fund-USA-supported volunteers run after-school programs, distribute food packages, provide senior care, and offer emergency aid to displaced families, ensuring that no community is left behind. A Movement of Grassroots Change "This is more than a network of communities—it’s a movement that brings people together, empowers local leadership, and builds the future of Israel from the ground up," explained one volunteer. "With every program launched and every life touched, our volunteers prove that meaningful change starts at the grassroots level. With continued support from Jewish National Fund-USA and its generous partners, the program is poised to expand its reach and deepen its impact, reinforcing its mission to create vibrant, self-sustaining communities across Israel. Circle of Impact The volunteer-driven initiative plays a critical role in Jewish National Fund-USA's Circle of Impact, whereby each initiative helps the organization's strategic aim of attracting 800,000 new residents to Israel's north and south. "Every program, initiative, and project we undertake directly or indirectly creates employment opportunities, economic growth, and community resilience, which are all essential elements in boosting the population of Israel's frontiers," said Jewish National Fund-USA Chief Israel Officer, Talia Tzour Avner." For more information, visit: www.jnf.org/makom Previous Next