The Jewish National Fund-USA’s Lawyers for Israel and other members of the pro-Israel legal community united on March 27 to tackle the topic of Jew-hatred at JNF-USA’s “Antisemitism: The Lawyers Are Coming” virtual event. Nearly 200 attendees earned Continuing Legal Education credit and learned how they can contribute to Israel advocacy, aid Jewish people facing discrimination both professionally and privately, and fight antisemitism throughout the United States.
The virtual gathering featured guest speaker Gabe Groisman, a lawyer and Jewish community leader. A trailblazer in combating antisemitism, Groisman made history as the mayor of Bal Harbour, Fla., by becoming the first in the nation to pass an ordinance against the BDS movement and codify a definition of antisemitism—achievements that set legal and political standards nationwide. Groisman highlighted the importance of combining legal expertise and leadership to fight Jew-hatred, address the BDS movement and promote justice.
He also discussed the legal options that lawyers can use to aid the Jewish community, noting Title VI and the subsequent executive order enacted in 2019 that applied the anti-discriminatory statute to protect against antisemitism. He said that allowing antisemitism can be viewed as a violation of university and school policies, opening the institutions up to potential breach of contract lawsuits.
Additionally, Groisman pointed out to the attorneys the value of using their status as prominent community members to make their voices heard and highlight the issues affecting Jews today.
“Whether we know it or not, we are all walking around with a toolbox,” said Groisman. “There are big tools and small tools that can be used by attorneys to try to help the Jewish community and the rise of antisemitism. We can’t end antisemitism, but, as lawyers, we can and should do as much as we can to support the Jewish community. This is our opportunity to make an impact.”
The organization’s lay leaders also discussed how Jewish National Fund-USA is spearheading Israel’s post Oct. 7 rebuilding initiatives. Through the organization’s bold and visionary Build Together plan for Israel’s south and Reimagine plan for the north, Jewish National Fund-USA is partnering with Israelis in the region to repair, rehabilitate and renovate damaged communities, creating secure, beautiful havens for residents to return home to. From bomb shelters and resilience centers to quality-of-life projects and critical infrastructure development, Jewish National Fund-USA is addressing the physical and psychological needs of Israelis living on Israel’s northern and southern frontiers.
“Jewish National Fund-USA is committed to rebuilding southern and northern Israel,” said Lawyers for Israel co-chair Steve London. “We thank you for your support, as this is a monumental commitment. Together, we will rebuild our homeland.”