Dear , As the year comes to a close, we wish you a season filled with warmth, hope, and moments of joy, whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah, gathering with loved ones, or simply taking time to rest and reflect. To help you share that spirit with loved ones, we’ve created a collection of digital cards: some inspired by the lights of Hanukkah, others designed for anyone who could use a kind message or a little extra brightness. Sending a card is simple:
A small gesture can bring a lot of light. We’re grateful to have you as part of our community, and we wish you a peaceful, joyful holiday season and a bright year ahead.
Promisers to date: The Jewish Future Promise reached 160,094 Signers
Community Notes
We’re pleased to share an upcoming opportunity from our partners at the Jewish Grandparents Network—a historic global gathering designed for grandparents of Jewish grandchildren. On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, hundreds of participants worldwide will join online for the first-ever Grandparents’ Jewish Learning Fest, a virtual event focused on connection, learning, and strengthening Jewish family life. 3:00–6:30 pm ET Program Highlights:
• Keynote by Dr. Becky Kennedy, renowned clinical psychologist and thought leader
• 10 expert-led sessions on Jewish identity, family engagement, and intergenerational connection
• Small-group meetups to build community Register here: jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/learningfest +++ This month, we want to highlight the inspiring story behind Bau, Artist at War, a new Paramount feature film that brings to life the journey of Joseph Bau, artist, forger, and Holocaust survivor. The True Story Behind Bau, Artist at War The new Paramount feature film Bau, Artist at War tells the true story of artist, forger, and Holocaust survivor Joseph Bau. His family founded what is now the Joseph Bau House Museum in Jerusalem, preserving his legacy of resilience, creativity, and survival. In tribute to his life and work, the film will be screened on January 1 at the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem, offering audiences a powerful opportunity to connect the film to the living history it honors. To learn more about the museum, visit the website linked here.
New & Newsworthy
In a Year of Darkness, We Choose to Light the Way – Times of Israel (Hadara Ishak) Jewish Future Promise Unites 150K Signees – The Atlanta Jewish Times (Staff) Leveraging intergenerational wisdom in formal Jewish education -eJewishPhilanthropy (Josh Schalk) Exclusive survey: "Allies" abandon Jews as antisemitism surges – Axios (Russell Contreras)
How To: How to Identify and Respond to Subtle Antisemitism
Understanding microaggressions—and knowing how to address them—can help create safer, more respectful conversations. Even when antisemitism isn’t overt, small comments, assumptions, or jokes can reinforce harmful stereotypes and make Jewish individuals feel othered. Here’s how to recognize these moments and respond with confidence and clarity. 1. Notice the Subtle SignsSubtle antisemitism often shows up as: - “Jokes” about money, power, or influence – even if framed as compliments.
- Comments that question Jewish identity (“You don’t look Jewish,” “Are you really Jewish?”).
- Assumptions about political views based solely on someone being Jewish.
- Stereotypes about Jewish holidays, traditions, or observance levels.
- Backhanded compliments that equate Judaism with certain professions, behaviors, or traits.
When a remark makes you pause or feel singled out, trust that instinct. 2. Pause Before ReactingIt’s normal to feel caught off-guard. Take a moment to assess: - Is this person unaware or intentionally provocative?
- Is this a teachable moment or an unsafe environment?
Respond in a way that prioritizes both clarity and your well-being. 3. Use Calm, Clear LanguageYou don’t need a speech—just a simple statement. Depending on the dynamic, try: - “I know you may not have meant this, but that comment plays into a harmful stereotype.”
- “That joke makes me uncomfortable.”
- “I’d appreciate if you didn’t make assumptions about my identity.”
Direct, non-accusatory language often leads to real conversation. 4. Offer Education When AppropriateIf the moment allows, explain why the comment is problematic: - Share context about common stereotypes.
- Clarify the diversity of Jewish identities and experiences.
- Gently correct misinformation.
Many people simply haven’t been exposed to Jewish perspectives—your response can help create understanding. 5. Set BoundariesIf someone doubles down or dismisses your concern, you are empowered to end the interaction. Try: - “I’ve explained why that’s harmful. I’m not continuing this conversation.”
- “Please don’t speak about Jewish people that way around me.”
Protecting your peace is not only allowed—it’s essential. 6. Seek SupportShare the experience with trusted friends, family, or colleagues. For students, teachers or administrators can be helpful allies. For workplace incidents, HR or DEI teams can provide support and documentation. 7. Continue the Conversation Within Your CommunityDiscussing how we face subtle antisemitism helps strengthen Jewish resilience and unity. By sharing stories and strategies, we empower each other to take meaningful action.
Promiser Spotlight: Hashem Arij
This month, we are honored to spotlight Hashem Arij, a Promiser whose journey reflects both resilience and profound moral clarity. Originally from Syria and now living in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Hashem brings a unique and deeply moving perspective to the Jewish Future Promise community. In Hashem’s own words to describe why he signed the Jewish Future Promise:
The existence of the State of Israel, and contributing to its defense and to the defense of the Jewish people, is a human obligation on this planet—for the sake of all humanity. Today, all of humanity, across nations, religions, ethnicities, and political affiliations, is in need of a people and leadership like that of the Jewish people and their nation—to help rescue the world from war, poverty, injustice, corruption, and terrorism. God, thousands of years ago, chose the Jewish people for this mission. He endowed them with faith and with intelligence across every field—politics, commerce, manufacturing, banking and finance, medicine, and engineering. This is no coincidence. It is divine purpose: that you be the people who help liberate and unify humanity, guiding it toward peace and security. Hashem’s commitment is a powerful reminder that the Promise resonates far beyond borders, backgrounds, or personal histories. His voice affirms that safeguarding Jewish identity, memory, and continuity strengthens not only the Jewish people but humanity as a whole. We are proud to welcome Hashem into the JFP community. His words and his Promise embody the hope, unity, and responsibility that guide our work each day. |
