ADL Leaders, Supporters and Activists,

We are outraged by the events of recent weeks and are devastated by the tragic loss of life. We collectively mourn the loss of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and countless other Black people murdered for the color of their skin, as a result of the inherent racism in our country. Today, we stand in solidarity with Black and Brown communities in New York and New Jersey and across the country.

While we struggle to find the words to express our sadness, anger and frustration, one thing is certain: silence is not an option. We will not sit idly by in the face of the unjust killings of Black individuals by law enforcement and vigilantes. Click here to read ADL CEO and National Director Jonathan Greenblatt’s statement. Systemic injustice and inequality calls for systemic change, and we are committed to combating the bigotry, racism and discrimination targeting marginalized communities today.

ADL’s mission—to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all—remains critical. We must stand up now for all Black and Brown individuals, including Jews of color, and unequivocally declare Black lives matter.

As Jonathan shared at ADL’s recent National Leadership Summit, “If you want Jews to live without fear in the United States, you should march for equality and justice for African-Americans, Latinos, and all Americans. If you believe that America needs to work harder to deliver equality and justice to all its people, then you should stand with us against antisemitism regardless of where it originates on the political spectrum.” Click here to watch Jonathan’s full address.

We are continuously exploring how ADL can be a source of education and information for all those seeking to serve as allies against racism and all forms of hate. Furthermore, we are challenging ourselves and our partners and supporters to determine the most effective ways to activate and advocate. You can read more in ADL’s resource library about the coalitions ADL is helping to build, including a push by the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights urging Congress to pass meaningful police reform legislation, and a pledge by over 130 Jewish organizations to work tirelessly to end systemic racism.

We are committed to standing up, speaking out and taking action and encourage you to do the same. The fight against racism, hatred and bigotry requires the participation of every person, and we urge you to take action now.

In partnership,
ADL NY/NJ