Global Law Enforcement Leaders Gather At Auschwitz For Intense Training Program
In the shadow of one of history’s darkest sites, more than 120 senior law enforcement leaders gathered this week in Poland for a pro gram with an urgent mandate to translate mem ory into action.
The seminar, titled “Operationalizing Never Again Not On Our Watch 2026,” was hosted at the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation in Oswiecim, adjacent to the former Nazi death camp Auschwitz. Organized in partnership with the Rutgers University Miller Center on Policing
and Community Resilience and the University of Virginia, the program brought together police leaders, policymakers and security officials from across the United States, Europe and beyond for an intensive period of study and discussion.
Among the highest ranking participants were New Jersey State Police Acting Superintendent
Jeanne Hengemuhle, New York Police Department Executive Director Amy E. Bishop, Washington DC Metropolitan Police Department Assistant Chief Tasha Bryant and
Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superintendent Sanjaya Wijayakoon, alongside Senior European Leadership including German Police Union Federal Chairman Jochen Kopelke. Their pres ence underscored the program’s reach into the upper ranks of global policing at a moment of heightened concern over extremism, antis emitism and other forms of hate.
For the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, the convening reflects a broader educational mission that has, over the past dec
ade, engaged tens of thousands of diplomats, military personnel, law enforcement officials and educators in Holocaust based training programs focused on tolerance, human rights and ethical leadership.
Participants spent time in Oswiecim combin ing historical study with professional dialogue. They toured the remains of the Auschwitz Birkenau camp complex, engaged in seminars on
More than 120 senior law enforcement leaders gathered this week in Poland for the seminar. (Photos, Courtesy of the AJCF)
The New York Mets one of the flagship teams in a city that is still home to one million Jews (1.4 in the New York metro area) has not had a Jewish heritage night since 2023, while continuing to hold events celebrating the heritage of numerous other New York ethnic groups. The Mets have remained silent about the rea sons for eliminating Jewish heritage nights this year. In 2024, the Mets gave the unconvincing excuse that they were moving towards events reflecting communities collectively. But this “col lective” celebration rationale is belied by the Mets’ actual sched ule of individual cultures’ heritage nights.
The Mets’ 2026 “Theme Games and Heritage Nights” sched ule includes heritage nights for Italians, Puerto Ricans, Black leg acy, Japanese, the Dominicans, Koreans, Irish and Mexicans, as well as nights for dogs (“Bark in the Park”), Hello Kitty, Star Wars, Medical Services Appreciation, Backyard Baseballs, Naruto (a Japanese anime ninja), Women and Pride (LGBTQ+).
The decision to jettison Jewish heritage night was likely made out of fear that anti Israel groups might violently demonstrate or riot. But that’s absolutely the wrong approach. When antisemitic groups succeed in eliminating Jewish heritage events, it only emboldens the antisemites to increase their attacks on the Jewish community.
The Mets and its Jewish owner need to do better for the New York Jewish community that has long supported their team.
In a recent letter, dated April 20, 2026, the ZOA wrote to NY Mets Owner Steven Cohen: Add Jewish Heritage Night to the 2026 Theme & Game Schedule
Mr. Steven A. Cohen
Owner, Chairman and CEO New York Mets
41 Seaver Way
Flushing, NY 11368
Dear Mr. Cohen:
We write on behalf of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), the oldest pro Israel organization in the U.S., with a long, proud history of fighting antisemitism and standing up for the rights and interests of the Jewish people.
As you surely know, many have expressed concern about the Mets’ theme and heritage game schedule for 2026. The team is honoring and celebrating a wide array of cultures and ethnicities, including Italian, Puerto Rican, Black, Japanese, Dominican Republic, Korean and Irish. Conspicuously absent especially for a team in New York which has the largest Jewish community out side of Israel is a night that honors and celebrates Jewish culture and heritage.
We recognize that the team has shown its support for the Jewish community in other ways, including by offering a variety of
kosher food options at Citi Field and even kosher for Passover options for the holiday last month. Indeed, the Mets previously hosted a Jewish Heritage Day at Citi Field as recently as 2023, shortly before the Hamas massacre in Israel on October 7, 2023. Since the massacre, antisemitism has frighteningly surged, including in New York. Hatred expressed towards Jews, and acts of violence against Jewish, are all too often shockingly and dis gracefully tolerated, legitimized, and even celebrated.
It is thus imperative that we take every opportunity to fight this hated and bigotry and shine a proud and positive light on Jewish culture, including at the ballpark. As a Jewish American, you can appreciate the critical importance of these efforts. As the owner of the Mets team, you have the power and authority to implement them at Citi Field.
Please add a night to the 2026 schedule where Mets baseball meets Jewish pride. You will send an important and necessary message to the team’s Jewish and non Jewish fans, to baseball fans everywhere, and to the people of New York.
Thank you for considering our concerns. We look forward to your response.
Announcement Made At Record Breaking Birthright Israel Foundation Gala In New Jersey
In Livingston, New Jersey earlier this month nearly 400 guests gathered at Crystal Plaza for the Birthright Israel Foundation New Jersey Gala, marking the organization’s largest event ever in the state.
The evening honored the Cooperman family Leon Cooperman and Toby Cooperman; their son Wayne Cooperman and daughter in law Jodi Cooperman; and their grandchildren Courtney and Kyra Cooperman for their enduring commitment to Jewish identity and philanthropy. Kyra participated in the Birthright Israel Excel program, and Courtney took part in the traditional 10 day Birthright Israel trip.
In a defining moment of the evening, the Cooperman family announced a $10 Million gift to Birthright Israel, representing a historic three generation philanthropic commitment led by the family. This legacy contribution to Birthright Israel’s endowment will enable doz ens of young adults to participate in a Birthright Israel experience each year in perpetuity. An additional $2.7 Million was raised at the event, which will cover the cost of sending 544 Jewish young adults on a Birthright Israel experience.
“During these times of growing antis emitism and increasing anti Israel sentiment, it is more important than ever to ensure that the
next generation has every opportunity to con nect to Israel and their Jewish identity,” said Leon Cooperman. “Making a $10 Million leg acy endowment gift to the Birthright Israel Foundation is one of the most impactful ways to reach young Jewish adults. We must help strengthen their understanding of our people’s history and deepen their connection to our his toric homeland.”
The gala featured keynote remarks from Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Former IDF Spokesperson, and Rabbi Matthew D. Gewirtz, Senior Rabbi of Temple B’nai Jeshurun.
“This extraordinary gift from the
Cooperman family reflects the very essence of what Birthright Israel stands for continuity, connection, and the power of investing in future generations,” said Elias Saratovsky, President and CEO of Birthright Israel Foundation. “At a time when Jewish identity and global connection are more important than ever, their leadership ensures that hundreds more young adults will have the opportunity to experience Israel in a deeply meaningful way and carry that impact for ward for years to come.”
The record breaking event underscores growing momentum and support for Birthright Israel’s mission across New Jersey and beyond.
(L-R) Jody, Leon, Toby and Wayne Cooperman
(L-R) Elias Saratovsky and Leon Cooperma
(L-R) Wayne, Jody, Leon and Toby Cooperman
Photo credit: Courtesy of Birthright Israel Foundation.
(L-R) Elias Saratovsky, Wayne Cooperman, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari and Jody Cooperman
[L] The mission is to engaged tens of thousands of diplomats, military personnel, law enforcement officials and educators in Holocaust based training programs focused on tolerance, human rights and ethical leadership. [R] Policymakers and security officials from across the United States, Europe and beyond came together for an intensive period of study and discussion.
from
the role of state institutions in enabling atroci ties and took part in discussions designed to connect those lessons to contemporary polic ing.
“Law enforcement officers hold immense authority and responsibility,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony. “Our responsibility is to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust are not con fined to history but are actively shaping how today’s leaders confront bigotry, hatred and the dehumanization of others.”
The program’s structure reflects a growing emphasis on professional audiences particularly those entrusted with public authority. While Holocaust education has long focused on stu dents and the general public, institutions like the Auschwitz Jewish Center have increasingly tailored their work to judges, diplomats and law enforcement officials, arguing that such groups play a decisive role in preventing hate and pro tecting vulnerable communities.
“Never Again is not a slogan it is a respon sibility,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Chairman Simon Bergson. “By bringing together leaders from across countries and disciplines we are building a community committed to recognizing warning signs and acting before prejudice and hatred escalate into violence.”
The delegation reflected that international scope. In addition to senior American officials, participants included police leaders and union representatives from Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Estonia as well as officials from Canada, Kenya and Australia. Many hold posi tions that shape training standards, departmen tal policy and national policing strategy.
The program was led by Paul Goldenberg, Chair of the initiative, alongside colleagues from Rutgers and the University of Virginia and featured a mix of lectures, site visits and small group discussions.
For many, the setting itself a short distance
and
served as a stark reminder of how ordinary insti tutions including police forces were once drawn into systems of persecution and mass murder.
“In Oswiecim, where the consequences of hatred were carried out with the participation of ordinary institutions, we are consistently reminded that the line between protection and persecution is defined by human choices,” said Tomasz Kuncewicz. “Programs like this are about equipping today’s leaders with the aware ness and moral clarity to ensure that authority is always used to defend human dignity, never to erode it.”
Sessions focused on the incremental nature of authoritarianism, the normalization of bias and the ethical obligations of officers when con fronted with unlawful or discriminatory direc tives.
The delegation included senior law enforcement officials from across the United States and abroad. including:
• From Arizona: Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Captain Tim Williams.
• From California: San Mateo Police Department Chief Ed Barberini.
• From Colorado: Denver Sheriff’s Department Major Keri Adcock; Boulder Police Department Deputy Chief Ron Gosage; Colorado State Patrol Captain Wesley Kartus; Colorado State Patrol Lieutenant Colonel Joshua Downing.
• From the District of Columbia: Metropolitan Police Department Assistant Chief Tasha Bryant; Metropolitan Police Department Captain Gavin Nelson.
• From Florida: Aventura Police Department Chief Michael Bentolila; St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office Reservist Adam Dobrin.
• From Maryland: Montgomery County Department of Police Captain Kathy M. Estrada; Hyattsville Police Department Deputy Chief Laura Lanham.
• From Massachusetts: Massachusetts State
Police Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Tucker; Wellfleet Police Department Reserve Officer Marc Spigel.
• From Minnesota: Minneapolis Police Department Bureau Chief Ganesha Martin.
• From New Jersey: New Jersey State Police Acting Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle; South Brunswick Police Department Captain Jeffrey Russo; Monmouth Junction Police Department Chief Raymond J. Hayducka; Cinnaminson Police Department Chief William Obuchowski; New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Executive Director Mitchell Sklar.
• From New York: New York Police Department Executive Director Amy E. Bishop; Suffolk County Police Department Assistant Commissioner Elizabeth Daitz.
• From North Dakota: North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation Chief Agent Casey Miller.
• From Tennessee: Knoxville Police Department Captain Tracy Hunter; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Director David Rausch.
• From Texas: Harris County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Joseph Saavedra; Collin County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff AJ Skinner.
• From Virginia: Virginia State Police Lieutenant Colonel Norman Gray; Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Major David Hill; Louisa County Fire and EMS Deputy Chief Chris Lee.
• From Washington: Seattle Police Department Lieutenant Dorothy Kim.
• From Australia: Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner Virginia Nelson.
• From Belgium: Antwerp Police Department Chief External Relations Karl Hereen; Antwerp Police Department Commissioner Bob Davits; Local Police Antwerp First Inspector Van Bogaert Koen.
• From Canada: Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superintendent Sanjaya Wijayakoon.
• From Estonia: Estonian Police and Border Guard Prefecture Head Vaiko Vaher.
• From Germany: German Police Union Federal Chairman Jochen Kopelke; German Police Union Deputy Chairman Sven Huber; Bavarian State Police Colonel Bernd Burger; Lower Saxony Police Detective Superintendent Damian Janitzki.
• From Kenya: Anti Terrorism Police Unit Chief Inspector Alvince Osura.
• From Netherlands: Dutch Police Union Strategic Advisor Michel Oz; National Police Superintendent Koen Simmers; Dutch Police Union President Vanessa van den Berg.
• From Portugal: Public Security Police Superintendent Rui Paulo Domingues Neves.
As the program concluded, participants departed Oswiecim with a shared charge to carry forward the lessons of a place synonymous with human destruction into institutions tasked with protecting life and liberty. For the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, the hope is that such efforts will ensure that remembrance is not pas sive but operational embedded in the daily deci sions of those who wield authority in societies around the world.
The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harness ing the lessons learned from the Holocaust to combat hatred and bigotry through educational programs and by providing direct humanitarian aid to victims of mass atrocities. It supports sur vivors of genocides and other tragedies, includ ing Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by Hamas’s October 7 attacks. The Foundation maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the last remaining synagogue in Oswiecim (Auschwitz) and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the town’s Jewish community while addressing hate. To date, over a million people have visited the center, more than 300,000 students participated in its edu cational programs and tens of thousands of dip lomats, military and law enforcement personnel and educators, have taken part in its educational initiatives on tolerance and the Holocaust. For more information, visit: https://ajcfus.org/.
More than 300 guests gathered for the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center’s (Levis JCC) Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department’s 11th Annual Shine Like A Star Luncheon, held April 24 at Boca West Country Club.
The inspiring afternoon brought together community members, families, advocates and supporters for a meaningful event benefiting the Levis JCC’s programs and services for individu als with special needs and their families. Guests enjoyed a silent auction, luncheon and a fea tured presentation by autism advocate Kaelynn Partlow, star of Netflix’s Love on the Spectrum.
A highlight of the program included remarks from Mark Gotlieb, Levis JCC Board Chair and parent of a program participant, who shared a personal perspective on the impact of the department’s work and the importance of con tinued community support.
The event was chaired by Lori Fineman and Alexis Frisch.
“The Shine Like A Star Luncheon is such a beautiful reflection of the community that sur rounds and supports our families,” said Ali Landman, VP of Special Needs Services at the Levis JCC. “As the needs of our families con tinue to grow, so do the programs and services we are able to offer. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, donated and helped make this year’s luncheon such a meaningful success.”
Proceeds from the luncheon support the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department. It’s more than 25 programs pro vides resources and inclusive opportunities for individuals with special needs and their families throughout the community. Sponsors included Judy Levis Krug, Marisa and Matthew Baker, Ellen and Ed Cohen, Melinda and David Friedman, Lesser Landy Smith and Siegel PLLC, MarshMcLennan Agency, Blues Brothers Roofing, Joyce Saltman, Roberta and Ron Simons, Shirley and Allan Solomon, Temple Beth EL, Twin Oil Company, CBIZ, Edelstein Family Foundation, Dana Egert, Bloomingdale’s, Code Age, Hotwire Fusion, J.Ortman, Raw Juce, Nothing Bundt Cakes, The Regency Collection At Home, Technology Resource Services, Publix Charities, Servpro, Morgan Stanley, Marilyn Weissglass, The Boca Raton Observer, Robin and Elliot Broidy, Lori Fineman, Renee Getlan, Lauren and Mark Gotlieb, MR Wealth Management, SBA, Helene and Roy Schwedelson, Esther Rosenberg and Michael Ostroff.
[1] Alexis Frisch, Marty Haberer, Ali Landman, Steve Clarfield, Soniya Patel-Festa, Mark Gotlieb, Al Bergman [2] Alexis Frisch, Nicole Ruderman, Soniya Patel-Festa [3] Heidi Cohen, Lori Goldstein, Nico Ali Landman, Erica Alster, Alexis Frisch, Soniya Patel-Festa [4] Dr Allison Schwedelson, Gloria Mitchell, Kaelynn Partlow, Helene Schwedelson, Dana Mitchell Kantor [5] David Friedman, Aaron Friedman, Kaelynn Partlow, Melinda Friedman [6] Mark Gotlieb, Kaelynn Partlow, Lauren Gotlieb, Asher Gotlieb [7] Amy Dweck, Kaelynn Partlow, Sandi Fried, Helene Paul [8] Steve Clarfield, Rabbi Dan Levin, Marty Haberer
For more information about the Special Needs Department, please contact Ilana Ducorsky at: ilanad@levisjcc.org
About the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department
The Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department has been serving for more than 30 years, offering a support system of
inclusivity for children, teens, and adults with disabilities. The department focuses on enhanc ing lives of those with disabilities by offering meaningful social, cultural, recreational, and educational experiences. The department offers support for 500+ families, offering 25 pro grams for participants ages 3–50+.
About the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center
The Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center fosters and enriches Jewish culture, heri tage, and values by offering a wide range of edu cational, social, wellness, and recreational pro grams designed for all ages. The JCC offers early childhood education, adult enrichment, family activities, cultural arts, summer camp, and programming for individuals with special needs.
(Credit: Jeffrey Tholl)
BirthrightIsrael
Names Simon Amiel Executive Vice President, North America
Simon Amiel of Birthright Israel
(Photo credit: Courtesy of Birthright Israel)
Birthright Israel today announced that Simon Amiel was appointed as the new Executive Vice President, North America, effec tive Monday, June 1st, 2026. He will be based in the organization’s New York office.
A Seattle native, Amiel brings extensive experience in Jewish communal leadership, Israel education, and cross sector partnership building across North America and Israel. He currently serves as Executive Director of RootOne, an organization that makes it possible for thousands of North American teens to build lifelong connections to Israel through immer sive travel experiences each year. His previous leadership roles include senior positions at Hillel and City Year.
Widely recognized as a thoughtful leader and strong collaborator, Amiel is deeply com mitted to advancing Jewish engagement. He will succeed Elizabeth “Liz” Sokolsky, who is step
ping down after more than two decades of lead ership at Birthright Israel and a distinguished career in Jewish communal life.
“Simon is a mission driven leader with a deep understanding of the North American Jewish landscape. His experience, relationships, and vision will be instrumental as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen connections to Israel for the next generation. We look forward to welcoming him to the team and are confident he will bring strategic vision, energy, and lead ership to the role,” said Gidi Mark, International CEO of Birthright Israel.
“On behalf of myself and everyone at Birthright Israel, I want to express our heartfelt thanks and deepest gratitude to Liz Sokolsky for her 26 years of visionary leadership and dedi cated service to the Jewish people. Liz will remain with us through the end of the year and will help onboard Simon and support a smooth transition. We are grateful to Liz for her lead ership and for her continued partnership during this period,” Mark added.
Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers. Photos (courtesy of FIDF)
This Yom HaZikaron (Israel’s official Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism), Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) mobilized more than 50 U.S. communities, engaged tens of thousands of participants, and activated roughly 100 young leaders in a nationwide effort to honor Israel’s fallen soldiers.
Across the country, FIDF supported memorial ceremonies used curated programming that reflected the tone and traditions observed in Israel. The initiative encouraged broad participation and brought entire communities together in a shared experience of remembrance and unity.
A central component of this year’s effort was FIDF’s Hall of Courage (www.fidf.org/hall of courage/soldiers/) an English language digital memorial dedicated to soldiers who have fallen since October 7. Visitors can learn about the fallen, read biog raphies, light virtual memorial candles, and write messages of support to bereaved families. FIDF staff in Israel print and deliver these messages. In the week leading up to Yom HaZikaron, more than 58,000 people worldwide visited the site and lit 60,696 vir tual memorial candles.
In partnership with the Israel Ministry of Defense, FIDF engaged Ynet to produce seven minute documentary films high lighting the lives of those who have fallen on and since October 7, 2023. Ahead of Yom HaZikaron, 26 films were released, with additional films in development and scheduled for rolling release. They can be viewed with English subtitles on the Hall of Courage, and are also being aired in Israel.
Programming in participating communities included large format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers, bio cards distributed to attendees, and stations for writing letters to bereaved families. Recordings of Israel’s memo rial siren, video tributes, and translated excerpts from soldiers’ final letters further deepened the experience and aligned it with commemorations in Israel.
In parallel, approximately 100 young leaders led a grassroots campaign to distribute memorial stickers in their communities. Modeled after a movement in Israel, the stickers featured photos, quotes, and artwork from fallen soldiers selected by their families. They created a personal, visible tribute that extended beyond for mal ceremonies.
“Bringing Yom HaZikaron to communities across the United States is about ensuring that Israel’s fallen soldiers are remem bered not only in Israel but by the global Jewish community as well,” said FIDF CEO Major General (Reserve) Nadav Padan. “Through the Hall of Courage and the collective participation of
tens of thousands, we are creating meaningful ways for people to connect, remember, and stand with the families who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a 501(c)(3) Not For Profit Organization dedicated to honoring and support ing the brave men and women of the IDF who risk everything to protect the State of Israel and the Jewish people. While the mis sion of the IDF’s heroes is to look after Israel, defending its peo ple, borders and freedom, FIDF’s mission is to look after them.
FIDF provides life changing support through education, finan cial aid, bereavement programs, mental health services and more, ensuring that every soldier, veteran and bereaved family knows they are not alone. Through global partnerships and unwavering commitment, FIDF stands as a pillar of strength for those who sacrifice so much in service to the Jewish homeland.
For more information, visit: https://www.fidf.org/.
PublicServiceAnnouncement:
How Scammers Are Using The Iran Conflict To Try To Steal Your Money And Information
With global attention focused on the conflict in Iran, it’s no surprise scammers have already added that situation to their story lines. Some recent reports to the FTC about imposter, romance, and fake charity scams include an Iran twist. The details change, but the scammer’s goal is always to trick you into paying or sharing your personal information. Here are some examples of these scams and how to protect yourself.
Scammers contact you unexpectedly about a fraudulent charge The call or text appears to come from your bank or a company you know. They say they’ve detected charges from Iran on your account (a lie). They transfer you to some one who says they work for a government agency like the FTC (that’s another scammer) who convinces you to share your bank account information. But the truth is government agen cies will never ask you to share financial infor mation. Learn more at: www.ftc.gov/imposters.
Scammers pretending to be a friend or love interest in the military ask for money Perhaps you’ve been chatting for a while with someone you met online. Now they tell you they’re deployed to Iran. Suddenly you get an urgent request to send them money, maybe because they can’t access their bank account or they have a medical emergency. But that’s when you know you’re likely dealing with a romance scam.
Scammers create fake charities that sound and look official They might claim to help peo ple displaced or affected by the conflict in Iran and pressure you to donate in cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. Before you donate, go to: www.ftc.gov/charity to learn how
to research, what questions to ask, and how to spot a charity scam. Act right away if you think you’ve sent money or given your information to a scammer, and report them at: www.ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
About AAABC (Area Agency on Aging of Broward County)
Sponsored by the Areawide Council on Aging of Broward County and the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County is the NonProfit umbrella organization charged with the respon sibilities of planning, coordinating, monitoring, and funding programs designed to meet the needs of over 510,632 year round Broward older adult residents including an Elder Helpline, Medicare Counseling, Health & Wellness classes and more. As the prime advo cate for local Older Americans, the AAABC contracts with administering organizations for the following programs: senior centers; senior day care; site meals; home delivered meals; Alzheimer’s in home and facility respite; minor in home repair; legal; transportation; home maker personal care; respite; emergency response; and case management. Please visit our website for detailed information on all our serv ices at: https://www.adrcbroward.org/
A Public Service Announcement from the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County, the state designated disability and aging resource center for Broward County funded in part by the State of Florida Department of Elder Affairs.
Keller’sKorner: 2026 Cadillac Championship
ByNeilKeller
Welcome to Keller’s Korner. It was another spectacular Cadillac Championship at the Trump National Doral in Miami, Florida. The tournament ran from April 30 through the final round on May 3, 2026, marking a celebrated return to a venue rich with history.
From 2007 through 2016, the Cadillac Championship was held annually at the Doral before departing the site—only to make its long awaited comeback this year. The Trump Organization hosted the event, and with President Donald Trump, his family, and guests in attendance, the grounds featured a significant Secret Service presence throughout the week end. During the final round, I spoke with Eric Trump, son of President Trump, and asked for his thoughts on the tournament. Eric responded, “This has been incredible. It is exciting with the best players in the world play ing.”
If this were the Olympics, it would have been an American sweep of the medals. Cameron Young, Scottie Scheffler, and Ben Griffin led the way, with many fans expecting Scheffler—the world’s #1 golfer—to take home the title. But Cameron Young ended all suspense early, win ning wire to wire with a commanding six shot advantage. On Sunday, President Trump was on site, and the golfers were well aware of his pres ence, underscored by the heightened security around the course. After securing his victory, Cameron Young spoke about the experience.
“He was just very complimentary,” Cameron told the media. “I’ve been fortunate to meet him before, and that’s especially with us golfers—it’s something he loves, and I think he appreciates how good everybody is on the PGA Tour. So, really just hugely complementary, and I, of course, thanked him for hosting us and that was about it.”
He added, “It’s very unique. He’s a very, very interesting man. He’s very powerful, and it’s an honor to get to play in front of him. Hugely grateful to him and his family and his organization that has these beautiful properties and allows us to come and play great golf tour naments on them. This is a special place and a great championship golf course. I’m thankful to have it back in the schedule.”
Spotlight on the Jewish Golfers
As always, I make it a priority to highlight the Jewish athletes competing in sporting events. This year’s Cadillac Championship fea tured four Jewish golfers: Daniel Berger, Max Greyserman, Max Homa, and David Lipsky.
Daniel Berger
Daniel Berger, 33, grew up in Key Biscayne, Florida. At just 13 years old, he made a hole in one—an early sign of the talent that would carry him to four PGA Tour victories. Interestingly, Daniel never played for his high school (Dwyer High School) golf team in Palm Beach Gardens.
I had the honor of speaking with his father, Jay Berger, who was watching his son at the golf tournament. Jay was a former world class tennis player who reached a career high ranking of #7 in 1990.
I asked Jay who first introduced Daniel to golf. “That was me,” Jay said. “We expressed our desire for him to go for it as a career. He started playing golf at the age of 11 in Key Biscayne.” Jay added proudly, “He is a great kid.”
Daniel finished the tournament at 6 under, tying for 23rd place.
Max Greyserman
Max Greyserman, 30, grew up in New Jersey and now resides in Palm Beach Gardens. He has
one professional win so far and interviewing him was a pleasure—especially when I noticed the belt he was wearing, decorated with the Israeli flag.
“I got this belt from Athletes for Israel,” Max told me. I immediately told him how proud I was to see it.
When I asked how he felt about his Saturday round, Max said, “I did not play great. I shot even. This is a tough course.”
I asked who first got him into golf. “My par ents did,” he said. “I was only 3 or 4 years old.”
I then asked if he had a Bar Mitzvah. Max smiled and said, “Yes, I did.”
His favorite golf course? He didn’t hesitate: “Augusta National,” home of The Masters.
Max finished the tournament at 4 under, tying for 38th place.
Max Homa
The second Jewish Max in the field, Max Homa, grew up in California and now lives in Arizona. In my view, the 35 year old is currently the best Jewish golfer in the world, with six PGA Tour victories to his name.
Max has a Jewish mother, attended Hebrew School, and had a Bar Mitzvah. In a 2023 Masters survey about the Champions Dinner menu, Max famously said, “I’m half Jewish, so maybe I’d throw in my mom’s matzo ball soup.”
The course played tough all week, with tem peratures soaring into the 90s on one of the days. Max finished at 4 under, tying for 38th place alongside Greyserman and nine others.
David
Lipsky
David Lipsky, 37, grew up in Southern California and has a unique background—his father is Jewish and his mother is Korean. David told me his parents introduced him to golf when he was ten years old.
He finished the tournament at 4 over, plac ing 71st.
Overall, this was a great tournament offering fun times for people of all ages.
Neil Keller is a Jewish historian. Visit www.NeilKeller.com to learn who is Jewish.
Neil Keller and Eric Trump
Daniel Berger with his caddie Neil Keller with Max Greyserman
This day remains, for me — and surely for my mother, Matilda (“Mickey”) Liebowitz — the saddest day of our lives. Sixty two years ago today, Mom lost her beloved son, and I lost my brother, Alan Kenneth Liebowitz.
Alan was not merely a child remembered through grief. He was real, vibrant, brilliant, and full of life. If not a genius, he was certainly far beyond his years. Even as a little boy, he possessed remarkable mechanical ability, much like our father, Sidney Liebowitz. I remember once, when Alan was only five years old, watching him stand at the front window of our modest Miami apartment with a screwdriver in hand, carefully reinforcing a loose screen as though he were already a grown craftsman.
Our parents were still very young then, barely in their mid twenties, raising two boys while building a life together in Florida. Dad’s parents had helped them with a yearly tax free gift of $3,000 — enough in those days to purchase a brand new 1962 Chevy Impala. Dad, a proud real estate salesman, would drive prospective clients through sunny Florida communities like Melbourne and Port St. Lucie. To me, that Impala seemed elegant beyond words.
Sometimes Dad had to travel for weekends to entertain cli ents, leaving Mom alone with Alan and me. Oddly enough, those weekends became little celebrations for us. We would shop at Kwik Chek — long before it became Winn Dixie, “The meat peo ple.” I still remember those enormous Hershey bars that cost only thirty nine cents. By the time Dad returned home, all evidence of the chocolate had mysteriously disappeared.
Those early years held such innocence. I had attended ele mentary school briefly in Brooklyn before we moved to Miami, and I can still remember the paper bags Mom packed with choco late chip cookies for my lunch.
Then everything changed.
Alan became stricken with the most malignant form of brain cancer. After months in the hospital and a prolonged coma, he eventually returned home — but forever altered. Years later, Mom confided something to me that I have never forgotten. She had been sitting beside Alan’s hospital bed, crying quietly while he lay motionless, his eyes closed. She prayed with every ounce of her being. Then suddenly, while still in the coma, a tear rolled down Alan’s face.
Mom later asked him, after he awoke smiling brightly from that long darkness, “Alan, why are you smiling? Why are you happy?”
And Alan answered:
“Because I want you to be happy.”
That was my brother. In Hebrew, one might call him a “gita neshuma” — a truly kind and beautiful soul.
courage and dignity.
Though his physical abilities had been devastated, his mind remained sharp. Looking back now, I cannot fathom the strength it must have taken for such a young boy to endure so much with so little complaint. Like our father, who had proudly served in the
Alan eventually came home to the care of our maternal grand parents, Eddie and Sally Altner. A hospital bed had been placed lovingly in their home, complete with raised rails to keep him safe. He had to relearn basic coordination and simple mechanical tasks — a heartbreaking reality for a child who had once been naturally gifted with his hands. Yet he endured it all with quiet
erly couple after the husband told me it had been their wedding song more than forty years earlier.
Dad was proud of my military service. I often think Alan would have been proud too. Perhaps he himself would have enlisted one day. I believe he would have excelled at serving others.
“This story took 1 hour and 20 mins to write, I believe it was a gift from G-D” Ira Liebowitz
U.S. Army before we were born, Alan cherished carrying his small army green canteen.
Years later, I too entered military service, enlisting in the United States Air Force. During my four years stationed at a mili tary hospital in central Illinois, I learned the routines of patient care and therapeutic diets. I also learned every word of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” I remember singing it repeatedly for an eld
Now, through the mist of years and tears, that terrible day seems both dis tant and impossibly near. Yet Alan is not truly gone. In that inner sanctuary where life stores all beautiful things — sugar plums, red Macintosh apples, babbling brooks, gladiolas, and the Easter lilies that once bloomed in our yard — there too rest the memories of my brother.
They remain illuminated still, glowing like the eternal lights of a Hanukkah menorah.
Spanning over 25,000 square feet, the museum will utilize state-ofthe-art technology and provide immersive, interactive experiences. (Credit - Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida)
Holocaust Museum for Hope & Humanity Plans to Break Ground and Kickoff Construction Later this Year The Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida (Holocaust Center) today announced it has secured gifts and pledges equaling 70 per cent of its funding goal–approximately $44 Million of its updated $63 Million budget–to build, operate and endow the transformative “Holocaust Museum for Hope & Humanity” in Orlando. The organization anticipates a groundbreaking ceremony in the fourth quarter of this year to kickoff construction.
“Our community’s sustained interest in our mission and expanded slate of programming afforded opportunities to explore different sites and facilities over the past decade,” said Holocaust Center Board Chair Ronald Schirtzer. “We are proud to have landed on a right sized concept that strengthens our vision. The design we’ve arrived at centers the Holocaust Center in the heart of downtown Orlando, dramatically expands our ability to deliver programs within and beyond the museum’s walls, and establishes the financial foundation to sustain this mission for genera tions. We look forward to breaking ground later this year.”
The 25,345 Square Foot Museum, 3.5 times larger than its current space, will be built at an architecturally significant, centrally located
site provided by the City of Orlando in down town Orlando at a value of $10 Million. It is designed around a nontraditional approach to Holocaust education that meets younger gen erations where they are, helping them under stand how injustice, othering, and un belonging take shape in their own communities through the lessons of the Holocaust. Through immer sive learning environments, first person tes timony of local survivors, and innovative tech nology, the museum reinforces that it is a space for ongoing conversations about personal and collective responsibility and action in the face of injustice.
“The Holocaust Museum for Hope & Humanity will be an important addition to downtown Orlando. More than just a destina tion, the museum will help residents and visitors learn from the past as we work to ensure that our city remains welcoming to all people today and tomorrow. I am grateful for our community’s collective support of the Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida as they work to bring this vision to reality,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.
Designed by Orlando firm HuntonBrady Architects, the new plans will invest in an exten sive remodel and reimagining of the property’s existing building, formerly home to the Orlando Chamber of Commerce with adjoining new con struction to house the museum’s core exhibit. This path allows for the full expression of the museum’s vision while reclaiming the com munity focus the Holocaust Center has been known for. MDSX, an Orlando based award winning experience design, media production, and creative management agency will spearhead exhibit design.
“MDSX will be bringing the experience to
life, leading the creative vision, infusing the pro ject with our renowned storytelling and inter active media production expertise. Our team also includes Kellen Nixon, of Nixon & Co., who works closely with us to bridge the gap between the community and the museum, and Luna Lux for dynamic lighting design, among others. This collective of top tier partners will deliver a transformative, multi sensory destina tion that sets a new benchmark for immersive cultural experiences,” said MDSX Owner and Chief Experience Officer Dan Picard.
“Our core exhibit design centers the lived experiences of those who endured the Holocaust, grounding the space in our guiding values of empathy, dignity, resilience, and responsibility. Instead of a traditional, perpetrator focused chronology, the exhibition invites visitors to move alongside local Florida survivors and encounter events as they were experienced and understood in real time, reveal ing how injustice, othering, and unbelonging took hold and the role we each play in confront ing them today,” said Holocaust Center Senior Director of Museum Experiences Suzanne Grimmer.
“As educators, we are entrusted not only with preserving memory, but with shaping con science. By guiding visitors through the lived experiences of survivors using immersive envi ronments and interactive testimony, we move beyond information to formation. We cultivate empathy, deepen perspective, and strengthen moral courage so that learning extends beyond our walls into resilient, responsible action within our community,” said Holocaust Center Senior Director of Education & Community Engagement Stephen Poynor.
The museum will support local educational
efforts and add to Orlando’s rich collection of cultural attractions, which draw tens of millions of visitors and has made the city the United States’ most visited tourist destination. The Museum is the recipient of a $10 Million allo cation from Orange County’s Tourist Development Tax funds.
“Orange County prides itself on its unique cultural attractions, and the Holocaust Museum for Hope & Humanity is especially meaningful for our community and the millions who visit Central Florida,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings.
The State of Florida has contributed $5 Million to the museum, on a funding request forwarded by (former) State Senator Linda Stewart and State Representative David Smith. The new museum has also received significant gifts and pledges from a range of private donors and foundations.
About the Holocaust
Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida
Founded in 1980 as a lecture series on the Holocaust, the Holocaust Center was estab lished in 1982 and opened its museum in 1986 through the vision and leadership of Holocaust survivor and local philanthropist Tess Wise. Located just outside Orlando, the Center wel comes visitors from around the world. Its mis sion is to use the history and lessons of the Holocaust to build a just and caring community free of antisemitism and all forms of prejudice and bigotry.
Visit: www.hmrec.org to stay connected with their latest events, workshops, and opportunities to engage.
Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02) (Photo Credit - https://clerk.house.gov/Members#MemberProfiles)
In late April in Washington D.C. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA 1), alongside U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL 25), Mariannette Miller Meeks (IA 01), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA 02), introduced a resolution to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) in the House of Representatives and condemn rising antisemitism.
Observed each May, Jewish American Heritage Month honors the generations of Jewish Americans whose faith, service, sac rifice, innovation, patriotism, and leadership have helped shape the American story. This year’s resolution recognizes the essen tial role Jewish Americans have played throughout the 250 year history of our nation, including the more than one million Jewish Americans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and the Jewish service members whose courage earned the Medal of Honor.
“Few stories speak more clearly to the promise of America than the story of Jewish Americans — a story of faith, resilience, service, sacrifice, and an enduring devotion to freedom. Their contributions are not a footnote to American history; they are among its essential chapters,” said Fitzpatrick. “This bipartisan resolution honors that legacy and, amid the continued and alarm ing rise in antisemitism, reaffirms a solemn responsibility: to stand with Jewish Americans, confront hatred with moral clarity, and ensure that antisemitism finds no refuge in the United States of America. As Co Chair of the Bipartisan Task Force for Combatting Antisemitism, I will continue working across the aisle and within our PA 1 community to lead that effort.”
“As we celebrate the 21st year of Jewish American Heritage Month, I’m proud to lead this effort to detail all the remarkable contributions that generations of Jewish Americans made to shape our nation’s history, culture and society,” said Wasserman Schultz. “This celebration is also one of the most effective ways to combat rising antisemitism, as Jews and non Jews alike come to learn about all the amazing Jewish men and women who played critical roles to advance the American experiment over the past 250 years, including those who defended our nation in the mili tary. I’m so grateful to have strong, bipartisan support in this effort.”
“During Jewish American Heritage Month, we come together to recognize our Jewish neighbors’ rich legacy of history and cul ture. This month, and every month, we celebrate the incredible vibrancy and diversity of Jewish life and the critical contributions Jewish Americans have made to our nation,” said Carter. “At the same time, we must stand against the rising tide of antisemitism and all forms of hatred and discrimination. This Jewish American Heritage Month, I will keep fighting to ensure everyone can live without fear.”
“I am proud to join Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Carter, and Fitzpatrick in leading this bipartisan effort to recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month,” said Miller Meeks. “As antis
emitism continues to rise across our country, it is more important than ever that we stand united in confronting hatred and honoring the contributions of Jewish Americans. I will continue working to combat antisemitism and stand firmly with our Jewish friends and neighbors.”
This year’s JAHM resolution commemorates the contri butions of more than one million Jewish Americans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and highlights the valiance of several Jewish service members who earned the Medal of Honor. The resolution is endorsed by the ADL; American Jewish Committee (AJC); Combat Antisemitism Movement(CAM); Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America; the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA); the Jewish Federations of North America; Jewish War Veterans of the USA; National Council of Jewish Women; Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (Orthodox Union); Rabbinical Assembly; Sephardic Heritage International DC (SHIN DC); and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ).
“Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity to cele brate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans who have helped shape our nation,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the ADL. “This rec ognition is especially important as antisemitism continues to rise. We are grateful to Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Fitzpatrick, Carter, and Miller Meeks for their leadership on the JAHM resolution, and we look forward to working alongside leaders in Congress to help protect Jewish communities.”
“According to American Jewish Committee’s State of Antisemitism in America 2025 Report, 91% of American Jews say they feel less safe as a Jewish person in the United States due to violent attacks on American Jews in the past year,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee (AJC). “When so many American Jews report feeling less safe in their daily lives, this resolution importantly affirms both the celebration of Jewish life in the United States and the shared responsibility to confront anti Jewish hate in all its forms. We are grateful to Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Brian Fitzpatrick, Troy Carter, and Mariannette Miller Meeks for their leadership in advancing this important measure and reaffirming that America’s strength lies in the celebration of both our shared values and our distinct identities.”
“For 250 years, Jewish Americans have had an indelible impact on society, helping shape national identity through contri butions in science, medicine, business, law, public service, media, sports, and entertainment,” said Alyza Lewin, President of U.S. Affairs for the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM).
“We commend this bipartisan resolution as a powerful affirma tion of the integral role Jews have played in the great American story, and we thank Congress for honoring the richness of Jewish American life and sending a clear message that antisemitism has
no place in the United States.”
“One of the most important ways to counter rising antis emitism in the United States is to increase public awareness of the American Jewish community’s significant contributions to the country’s civic, cultural and scientific life,” said Carol Ann Schwartz, National President of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America. “Hadassah is grateful to Representatives Wasserman Schultz, Miller Meeks, Carter and Fitzpatrick for their leadership in introducing this bipartisan resolution recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month. We urge Congress to support this critical resolution and continue speaking out against the rise in antisemitic hatred.”
“Jewish history is American history, and Jewish American Heritage Month offers us an opportunity to honor and celebrate the contributions that Jewish Americans have had in making this country what it is — and to recommit ourselves to the critical work of building a better America,” said Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA). “Since this country’s founding, Jewish Americans have helped lead movements to strengthen our democracy and expand civil rights — advocating for religious freedom, immigrant justice, workers’ rights, and equal protection under the law. We are grateful for this bipartisan effort to honor Jewish Americans’ critical contributions to our nation, to fight antisemitism wherever it is, and to reaffirm our clear understanding that Jewish safety and American democracy are inseparable.”
“Jewish American Heritage Month is a powerful celebration of the vibrancy, resilience, and enduring contributions of Jewish Americans to every chapter of our nation’s story,” said Gary Torgow, Chair of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). “At a time of rising antisemitism and real security con cerns for our communities, this recognition affirms our deep American roots, the contributions we have made to the great American experiment, and our right to live our communal lives safely as full members of American society. We are proud to sup port this bipartisan effort to honor Jewish life while standing united against hate in all its forms.”
“American Jews are living through an unprecedented time of challenge in the United States, as antisemitism has reached unprecedented rates,” said Nathan Diament, Executive Director of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (Orthodox Union). “But we remain hopeful that Congress and other leaders of our society will remain true to the founding prin ciples that gave Jews — and Americans of all faiths — unprece dented religious liberty in this great nation. We pray that in the upcoming month, JAHM events will enable us to celebrate American Jewish history and the greatness of the United States of America.”
“Sephardic Heritage International (SHIN DC) proudly sup ports the 2026 resolution honoring Jewish American Heritage Month,” said Afraim Katzir, Director of Sephardic Heritage International (SHIN DC). “Over the past 250 years, and as reflected by the resolution’s narrative, the Sephardic community has made vital contributions to this great country, reminding us that Jewish American heritage is a rich, multicultural story span ning Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas—and thereby foster ing understanding across diverse communities while countering prejudice and antisemitism by challenging simplistic narratives and harmful stereotypes about Jews.”
The United States observes JAHM annually to encourage all Americans to learn more about Jewish culture and pay tribute to the generations of Jewish Americans who have helped shape American history. With the continued rise of antisemitism. fueled by the spread of hatred, disinformation, and Holocaust distortion online, JAHM provides an opportunity to celebrate Jewish voices and bring together all our communities.
ADLMourns ThePassing OfNational Director Emeritus AbrahamH. Foxman
Abraham H. Foxman, former ADL National Director, addressed an audience of nearly 1,200 dignitaries, friends, lay leaders and donors at a tribute dinner in recognition of his 50 years of service.
ADL (the Anti Defamation League) deeply mourns the loss of our longtime National Director, Abraham H. Foxman. Born in 1940, Abe survived the Holocaust after he was entrusted to his Polish Catholic nanny, who had him baptized as a Catholic to hide his Jewish identity. He was miraculously reunited with his parents after the war.
Abe graduated from City College of the City University of New York and NYU School of Law, joining ADL immediately after graduating from law school and serving in various roles before being tapped as national director in 1987. An outspoken, passionate, and tireless advocate for the Jewish people and Israel, Abe served his entire 50 year career at ADL, becoming one of the world’s foremost voices against antisemitism and hate. He retired in 2015.
Nicole Mutchnik, ADL Board Chair, issued the following statement:
Abe Foxman helped build the modern liberal era of America. He was recognized across the globe as a great leader and passion ate advocate for tolerance, a voice of the generation rebuilding in the shadow of the Shoah, and longtime advisor to American presi dents and world leaders. To those of us who knew him, Abe was a warm friend, advisor, spirited antagonist and hugger – all over lunch.
On behalf of the ADL Board of Directors, and our thousands of ADL volunteer leaders over decades, I extend our deepest con dolences to his beloved Golda and beautiful family, who were the ultimate prizes of his life.
May his memory be for a blessing. Statement from Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director:
In his storied career, Abe transformed ADL while confronting antisemitism and hate (from both left and right), opposing the global rise in antisemitism, holding world leaders accountable and working to ensure that Israel was Jewish, secure and demo cratic. Abe’s voice was heard – and listened to – by popes, presi dents, and prime ministers, a voice he used wherever Jews were at risk. Abe Foxman spoke on the global stage with moral authority and clarity and was relentlessly dedicated to his pursuit of a world without hate.
Abe understood the power of words. He often said that the Holocaust did not begin with bricks and mortar and gas cham bers, but rather, it began with words. From this foundational principle, he made education and antibias training a cornerstone of ADL’s work just as ADL would stand in opposition to hateful rhetoric and violent bigotry whatever its source.
His work and philosophy were forged in a remarkable child hood. During the Holocaust, his parents were forced to entrust
him to the care of his Polish Catholic nanny Bronislawa Kurpi who baptized him and raised him as a Catholic for four years; she sought to retain custody of Abe. Although he lost 14 members of his family in the Holocaust, his parents survived and emigrated to the United States with Abe. He attended the Yeshiva of Flatbush
ate studies. Abe joined ADL in 1965 as an assistant director of legal affairs.
We extend our deepest condolences to Abe’s wife Golda, his children Michelle and Ariel and his son in law Brandon Cardet Hernandez, as well as his grandchildren, Cielo, Leila, Gideon, and Amirit.
May his memory be for a blessing.
About the ADL (the Anti-Defamation League)
ADL is the leading anti hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913 to protect the Jewish people, ADL works to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and secure justice and fair treatment to all. In the face of rising antisemitism and extrem ism, we protect, advocate, and educate, through a mix of pro grams and services using the latest innovations and technology, and seek to create a world without hate.
As antisemitism continues to surge on Social Media and other online platforms, with bad actors deploying new tactics to spread hate and mis and disinformation, American Jewish Committee (AJC) and CyberWell today formalized their partnership to understand, respond to, and prevent online antisemitism.
“Online antisemitism is not a new problem – but it is one that is constantly evolving, and so must our response,” said AJC CEO Ted Deutch. “As more people rely on these platforms for news and entertainment, bad actors have become dis turbingly skilled at spreading hate, masking antisemitic con spiracies as fact, and exploiting algorithms to deepen division. Combating digital antis emitism—the most predomi nant source of antisemitism today—demands precision, transparency, and real accountability from tech com panies. AJC’s partnership with CyberWell strengthens our tools in that fight, comple menting the work we are driv ing with leaders in govern ment, education, the private sector, and partner communi ties.”
By bringing together AJC’s policy expertise and insights into the lived experiences of Jewish communities across the country and around the world, and CyberWell’s platform level analyses and expertise in emerging antisemitic trends and digital policy compliance (Trust and Safety), the organizations can provide full picture accounts and practical recommendations to tech and social media companies and other digital platforms. These insights reflect what antisemitism looks and sounds like today – and how it is continu ing to evolve and spread online, becoming increasingly subversive as bad actors circumvent platform safeguards and exploit algo rithmic amplification.
antisemitism online at a time when collaboration between com munal organizations, social media platforms, and tech based solu tions, like CyberWell, are more urgent than ever.”
The formalized partnership will build on the work that AJC and CyberWell have already undertaken together, including direct engagement with major technology and Social Media com panies. Over the last six months, the organizations have crafted and presented targeted reports—including to Meta and X— that reflect American Jews’ experiences on their platforms. These reports include recommendations and urgent steps to address the anti Jewish hate the community experiences specifically on each
rienced antisemitism online say they felt physically threatened by these incidents. Online platforms and social media are also where most Americans encounter antisemitism. Among U.S. adults who reported seeing or hearing antisemitism in the past 12 months, nearly three quarters (74%) said they encountered it online or on social media. The next most common source was friends or fam ily, cited by 20% of respondents.
In March, AJC and CyberWell released The State of Antisemitism in America: Findings and Recommendations for Major Digital Platforms, a public report that outlines cross platform recommendations to confront the most pressing chal lenges online, including strengthening enforcement against the glorification of antisemitic attacks and pro terror content, improving detection of coded and AI generated antisemitism, pre venting coordinated manipu lation and bot activity, and increasing transparency around content moderation and algorithmic amplification.
platform, and reflect an individualized approach for each com pany, recognizing the opportunities and challenges each faces. Additional reports are planned in the coming months.
“We’re thrilled to expand CyberWell and the AJC’s working relationship which brings CyberWell’s innovative, tech and solutions based approach to AJC’s powerful policy, education and engagement initiatives,” said CyberWell CEO and Founder, Tal Or Cohen Montemayor. “Our joint work will act as a catalyst, multiplying the impact of our missions to combat the spread of
Complementing these reports, AJC and CyberWell will also continue to provide joint training for tech and social media plat forms’ trust and safety teams and senior leadership. CyberWell will also support AJC’s policy and research initiatives, including AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America Report through data shar ing and consultations.
AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2025 Report found that 73% of American Jews say they have experienced antis emitism online—either by seeing or hearing it or by being person ally targeted. One in five (21%) of American Jews who expe
American Jewish Committee (AJC) is the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people, creating trusted partnerships with leaders around the world to ensure Jews and Israel are safe and thriving. Through 40 offices and dozens of partnerships with Jewish communities worldwide, AJC engages lead ers in more than 110 coun tries, empowering those in government, education, part ner communities, and the pri vate sector to counter antis emitism and act as allies. For more, please visit: www.ajc.org.
CyberWell is an independ ent, tech based nonprofit com bating the spread of antisemitism online, operating globally. Its AI technologies monitor social media for posts that promulgate antisemitism, Holocaust denial and promote violence against Jews and their allies based on the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of antis emitism. Its analysts review and report this content to platform moderators while indexing all verified posts in the first ever open database of antisemitic Social Media posts, cataloging it openly for transparency at: app.cyberwell.org. Through partnerships, education and real time alerts, CyberWell partners with Social Media Platforms and digital service companies to help them enforce their policies more effectively, promoting proactive steps against online Jew hate.
The Underline, a multimodal corridor and linear park running beneath Miami’s Metrorail, has officially opened Segment 4 (Southwest 27th Avenue to Douglas Road), marking the comple tion of five continuous miles of trail within its fifth year since the project began. A defining moment in The Underline’s fifth year, this milestone represents a major step for ward in transforming more than 120 acres of underutilized land into a world class, connected corridor that offers residents and visitors a safer, dedicated pathway for walking, biking, jogging, and connecting with nature and the community.
Friends of The Underline commemo rated the milestone with a “Five Years, Five Miles” ribbon cutting led by Miami Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, District 7 County Commissioner Raquel Regalado, City of Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago and Commissioner Rhonda Anderson and the Miami Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), as well as key public, private, and philanthropic part ners who have played a role in bringing The Underline to life.
“This is what it looks like when Infrastructure puts people first,” stated Mayor of Miami Dade County Daniella Levine Cava. “The Underline is trans forming underutilized space into some thing that improves daily life by creating safer ways to move, more opportunities to connect, and a shared place for our com munity to come together. Reaching five miles in five years is a meaningful mile stone for Miami Dade County.”
The Underline’s achievement reflects the leadership and coordination with Miami Dade County and its agencies, including the Mayor’s Office, Board Of County Commissioners, and DTPW, alongside critical construction and operations contributions from the cities of Miami, Coral Gables, and South Miami, the Florida Department of Transportation, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and a growing network of philanthropic and pri vate sector partners.
and creates a safe alternative for multimodal use. Today, five years later, seeing people using these five miles on The Underline vali dates our vision and mission,” said Meg Daly, Founder and Chair of Friends of The Underline.
“The Underline offers a national blueprint and a new standard
Miami Dade County’s Department of Transportation and Public Works.
Through its “Five Years, Five Miles” campaign, Friends of The Underline is reflecting on its journey, sharing milestones, programming, and partnerships across digital and social plat
“Projects like The Underline require clear vision, strong part nerships, and the discipline to deliver,” highlighted Raquel Regalado, Miami Dade County Commissioner, District 7. “This milestone shows what’s possible when we invest in Infrastructure that not only connects communities, but also strengthens how our county grows, moves, and plans for the future.”
Public and private partners have helped shape The Underline into a model for collaboration, where Infrastructure, program ming, and community engagement come together to create last ing public value.
“Five years ago, we opened the first half mile segment of The Underline beginning community promise to transform an over looked space into a community asset that connects all of Miami
for delivering connected, multimodal Infrastructure that enhances how people move through and experience urban spaces,” noted Eulois Cleckley, CEO of Friends of The Underline. “These five continuous miles have created an impor tant mobility corridor that improves safety, expands access, and strengthens connectivity across Miami’s urban core.”
With the opening of Segment 4, The Underline extends its reach into new neighborhoods, reinforcing its role as a connected mobility corridor for walking, biking serving as and access to transit a civic asset for the city and county.
“This milestone represents another step forward in transform ing how people move in Miami Dade County. This nearly one mile stretch of The Underline between 27th and 37th Avenues, is yet another example of what strong partnerships can achieve, building five of 10 total miles in five years. It creates a safer, more connected corridor that enhances access to transit and each other. It strengthens our communities and keeps Miami Dade moving forward,” remarked Stacy L. Miller, P.E., Director of
forms. For updates on events and activities, follow @theunder linemia on Facebook and Instagram.
To learn about how you can donate and volunteer, please visit: www.theunderline.org.
About Friends Of The Underline
Friends of The Underline is the nonprofit organization dedi cated to the development, activation, and stewardship of The Underline, a 10 mile linear park, urban trail, and living art des tination transforming the land beneath Miami’s Metrorail into a world class public space. The Underline connects communities through nature, music, art, wellness, and year round events and activations. With more than 200 free programs annually, The Underline has become a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors alike. When complete, it will span from the Miami River in Brickell to the Dadeland South Metrorail Station in Kendall. Learn more at: www.theunderline.org.
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