Originally published in the May 31, 2021 issue.
June 6–9
Rabbi Batya Glazer
The American Jewish Committee’s annual Global Forum will be virtual this year, making it possible to participate from home. This conference delves into the substantive topics and concern of the worldwide Jewish community, offering an opportunity to hear policy makers, experts, analysts, and global leaders discuss and give context to complicated issues. This year’s issues include restoring and renewing a deeply divided America, promoting Israel’s place in a reimagined Middle East, enhancing U.S. leadership on major geopolitical issues, and combating rising anti-Semitism and other forms of hate.
AJC’s mission is to enhance the well-being of the Jewish people and Israel, and to advance human rights and democratic values in the United States and around the world. AJC’s offices are found worldwide, including in Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific, the United States, and Israel. These offices raise awareness of anti-Semitism, and engage and challenge officials to stand up against it. By calling out the myths about the violence in Israel, the hostile campus atmosphere in the U. S., and the international travesties of justice when anti-Semetic violence is excused, AJC is committed to demanding justice for Jews and the Jewish people, and ensuring that leaders in America and around the world are aware of this inexcusable hatred. Through their work bringing faith communities together, AJC builds relationships and deepens understanding, while working to oppose all hatred and bigotry.
Highlights from the 2020 Global Forum included Angela Merkel’s reflections on the vital importance of remembering the Holocaust and combating anti-Semitism in all its forms and standing up for Israel’s security. Benjamin Gantz spoke on the importance of bipartisanship, and Mike Pompeo emphasized the dangers of anti-Semitism, anti-Zionism as an expression of anti-Semitism, and sending a firm message to Iran. Other United States and world leaders and opinion leaders included Dr. Anwar Gargash. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates.
To learn more about the Forum and to register, visit the Virtual Events tab at AJC.org.
To get involved or for more information about United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council, contact Rabbi Batya Glazer, director, at bglazer@ujft.org.