Standing Together Against Antisemitism

Standing Together Against Antisemitism

By Shannon Bennett, USA Director of Communications

On January 27, 2026, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, ICEJ USA’s Director of Communications, Shannon Bennett and Dr. Trish Miller, Director of CAMERA’s Partnership for Christians and Jews, joined leaders from Florida’s Jewish community at the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee for Israel Advocacy Day. These delegates from across the state gathered in a unified response to the alarming rise of antisemitism in Florida and across the United States.

ICEJ USA’s participation reflects a growing commitment to strengthen Jewish-Christian relationships. Through its ongoing partnership with the Miami Jewish Federation, the ministry has built trust and collaboration rooted in shared values and concerns. That relationship opened the door for Christian voices to stand alongside the Jewish community on International Holocaust Memorial Day, one of the most solemn days of remembrance on the calendar. It also offers a model for believers nationwide: meaningful, sustained relationships with local Jewish communities are not only possible—they are essential.

The facts presented that day were sobering. According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents in the United States have risen 344 percent over the past five years, reaching 9,354 incidents in 2024 alone. Florida ranked seventh in the nation, reporting 353 incidents, with more than one-third occurring at Jewish institutions—double the national average. In a single day in June 2024, fifty bomb threats targeted Jewish institutions across South Florida.

Photo of the group for Florida Israel Advocacy Day Courtesy of Palm Beach County Jewish Federation — Florida Israel Advocacy Day Group Shot Courtesy of Palm Beach County Jewish Federation

These are not distant statistics. They represent families, students, and communities living under increasing threat. Participants urged lawmakers to support expanded security funding for synagogues, churches, community centers, and schools—recognizing that threats against one faith community often extends to others. The safety of houses of worship is a shared concern, underscoring the importance of unified action.

The conversation also addressed antisemitism in Florida’s K–12 schools and universities. Jewish students shared deeply troubling accounts of harassment, bullying, and even physical violence—sometimes met with indifference or blame from those entrusted to protect them. Their testimonies underscored the urgency of action. In response, delegates expressed support for a statewide Antisemitism Task Force to strengthen accountability and develop meaningful solutions.

The ICEJ USA remains committed to standing with the children of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—both in Israel and here in the United States. At this critical moment, the Jewish community is not looking for words of sympathy, but for faithful allies—those willing to show up, build relationships, and take meaningful action.

Israel Advocacy Day was one such opportunity. But the call to stand against antisemitism does not end there. The ICEJ USA encourages believers across the nation to take two important steps.

First, reach out to a local Jewish federation, introduce yourself, and ask how you can stand together in your own community. These relationships are deeply needed in this hour.

Second, add your voice to a growing movement of Christians by signing the Christian Declaration Against Antisemitism. This declaration affirms a clear and united stand against hatred toward the Jewish people and sends a powerful message of solidarity.

In a time of rising antisemitism in the United States, the call is clear: to remember, to stand, and to act—together.

Sign the Christian Declaration Against Antisemitism!

Sign the Declaration

This work also requires tangible support. Through advocacy, education, and partnership, ICEJ USA is actively combating antisemitism and strengthening Christian support for Israel. Those who are able are invited to give generously, helping expand this vital work and ensure that our Jewish neighbors do not stand alone in this battle.

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