Antisemitism Summit Brings Experts, KC Community Together for Discussion
Kansas City, MO
Kansas City witnessed a groundbreaking event on Tuesday as a first-of-its kind summit was convened on the campus of Rockhurst University, aiming to educate those outside of the Jewish community on how to be better allies in the face of rising antisemitism.
Concerning Statistics Prompt Action
According to the American Jewish Committee (AJC), antisemitism has surged 400% since October 7, 2023. This stark rise has not only caused alarm but raised difficult questions within the Jewish community on how to navigate an increasingly fraught environment.
“When will we know when it’s time to leave? Should we have a bag packed? Should we buy property abroad?” shared Gavriela Geller, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Bureau with the AJC. Furthermore, AJC found that 63% of Jews in the United States feel less secure than a year ago, with 78% stating they feel less safe after the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel.
In response to this growing crisis, the 2024 Regional Summit on Combating Antisemitism was meticulously planned and executed. Distinguished speakers at the event included the likes of Mindy Corporon from SevenDays, Kevin Clayton from the Cleveland Cavaliers, and second gentleman Douglas Emhoff.
“Driving out Darkness in the Heartland”
Under the banner of the discussion, “Driving out Darkness in the Heartland”, these intellectual minds came together to offer their perspectives on combating antisemitism and actively fostering allyship. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Ted Deutch, the AJC CEO, stressed that rising antisemitism remains not only a Jewish issue, but a universal concern that endangers society at large.
Vanessa Huskey, studying human relations and leading a Christian community, attended the summit to learn more about other cultures. In spite of the alarming statistics, she emphasized the importance of mutual respect, saying, “If you want me to love you the way you are and you want me to respect your opinions, your beliefs, then how come you don’t respect mine?”
A Beacon of Hope Amid the Darkness
Despite the rising antisemitism, the second gentleman Douglas Emhoff conveyed a poignant message of hope, inspiring attendees with his words, “We still have to be joyful about being Jewish.”
Acknowledging the significance of the summit, it aligns with a wider campaign promoting seven days of kindness — a community initiative aiming to foster unity, empathy, and action against societal prejudices.
