SIMONE SULCAS, Vice Chair, Cape SAJBD
Attending the ADL Never is Now Conference in New York was a memorable experience. As the world’s largest annual summit on antisemitism and hate, the conference brought together leaders, activists, and experts to address global antisemitism. Topics ranged from the rise in antisemitism and extremism since 7th October to the role of technology in spreading hate. There were workshops on advocating against antisemitism on university campuses, learning from content creators combatting antisemitism on social media, and pushing governments to fight antisemitism. Wendy Kahn, the National Director of the SAJBOD, participated in a panel where she shared our post-7th October experience as Jews living in South Africa.
In addition, ADL certainly provided an all-star lineup. Actress Gal Gadot, influencer Montana Tucker, and New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch were particularly inspiring as they shared how they use their respective positions and platforms to fight hate and advocate for the Jewish people. The importance of having non-Jewish voices speaking up against antisemitism was also highlighted with the inclusion of Sheikh Muafak Tariff, the spiritual leader of the Druze community; Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba, Ambassador of the UAE to the US; and Loay Ashareef, a Muslim Arab content creator who counters antisemitic disinformation.
There were also heartbreaking stories. We heard from the parents of Omer Neutra z”l, who was held hostage and later killed by Hamas. The tears flowed freely when we heard from the parents of one of the Druze children killed by Hezbollah in a bomb attack on a soccer pitch in the Golan Heights.
The most relevant part for me was attending the global Jewish roundtable, where leaders from Jewish organisations from all over the world shared their experiences and strategies in combatting antisemitism. This was an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference, all working towards a common goal. The conversations were deep and meaningful, and reaffirmed that, while antisemitism remains a significant challenge, we have a strong, passionate community dedicated to pushing back and standing strong.
The trip to New York was more than just an event – it was a reminder that the fight against antisemitism requires community leaders to stand up, speak out and take action. Never is now, and the time to make a difference is today. ●
Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies | www.capesajbd.org | Instagram | Facebook
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