Antisemitism and You!

Antisemitism and You!
by Mark Goldstein, President, Men’s Club Temple Etz Chaim

This article is adapted from a drash delivered on Men’s Club/Women of TEC Shabbat, April 3, 2026.

This Shabbat ocurrs during Passover. As we all know, Passover commemorates the freedom of the Israelites, the Jewish people, from slavery in Egypt under Pharoah. Many modern haggadot direct us to not only feel as if we were slaves but to consider our current personal bondage, such as spending undo time on less important things or inaction that hinders us from living our best lives. But this year, many of us are burdened by and feel the pain inflicted by external forces negatively impacting our wellbeing. Unlike the single focus of pharaoh, it is greater, larger, scourge. This pain we feel is the result of antisemitism. Antisemitism that seems to be all around us.

Since October 7, 2023, hateful actions against Jews have been increasing at a tremendous rate. Too often we hear swastikas on buildings and anti-Jewish name calling and bullying at parks and schools in our backyard.

So, what can we do? The problem of antisemitism is pervasive and debilitating. It’s such a large burden. How can we shake it? What can you do? FJMC International, the organization supporting Men’s Clubs worldwide, provides some answers and guidance. FJMC is partnering with ADL. ADL has its longstanding mission to stop antisemitism and secure justice and fair treatment to all. I recently attended ADL’s Never Is Now Summit in New York City. Over 4,000 from business, education, entertainment, government, religion, and advocacy attended to confront the rising tide of antisemitism and hate.

The programming offered analysis of current threats and tangible strategies for action on campuses, in communities, and across industries. Among the most compelling moments was the recognition of Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, with the ADL Changemaker Award as Founder of the Blue Square Initiative to combat antisemitism globally and Richard Dickson of Gap Inc. with the 2026 ADL Courage Against Hate Award representing the growing role of corporate leadership in shaping cultural accountability and standing firmly against hate. The struggles and support of students was a focus of Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International. Over 60 Hillel student leaders from the world and BBYO highschoolers from across the country attended to become empowered. The conference provided examples for action, from grassroots organizing to high-level corporate engagement, the message was clear: silence is no longer a choice. ADL, StandWithUs and other organizations provide support, education and tools to empower and help us. For educational materials and guidance on addressing and responding to antisemitic acts refer to the following: ADL offers multiple programs for middle, high school and college students as well as teacher lesson plans and other guidance. Visit www.adl.org/about/education. To learn about Kulanu available to TEC members. Email Mark Goldstein for more information. StandWithUs provides educational pamphelts and information at standwithus.com/library. It is important to report hateful incidents you or your family members experience at work, at school, and in public settings. This allows tracking, and, when appropriate, taking actions in response.

Report antisemitic and other hateful occurances at: ADL www.adl.org and StandWithUs standwithus.com/report.

By being active in our community and taking action, you can make things happen for yourself and others. There is hope.

Written by Mark Goldstein, President, Men’s Club Temple Etz Chaim

“Antisemitism and you!” published in the July 2026, Inaugural Edition of Catalyst.