On behalf of ADL Washington, D.C.’s board and staff, we wish all who celebrate a meaningful and Happy Thanksgiving. We are so grateful to our stakeholders, partners and community members who work with us to build a world without hate.

Happy Chanukah to all who celebrate! Chanukah reminds us that even one small light has the power to illuminate darkness and spark hope, and together with our friends, families and community, our individual lights become a beacon. That’s why ADL will be among the participating organizations in the SHINE A LIGHT week of action. See below for more details and ways to get involved. 

And, as the December holidays approach, schools face the challenge of planning holiday programs and activities that demonstrate a respect for students of all faiths and religious beliefs. 

Here are some resources to help navigate the December Dilemma: 
 

• Explore the legal issues of religious freedom and how to help create a school environment that respects different points of view, cultures and religious beliefs by watching this webinar.
• Here are some important considerations when planning holiday observances in the classroom or school. Click here to review. 

SHINE A LIGHT is a national initiative taking place next week during Chanukah (November 28 through December 6) with the goal of raising awareness about antisemitism through education, community partnerships, workplace engagement, and advocacy among Jewish and non-Jewish communities. 

During Chanukah 2021, take action with SHINE A LIGHT in the classroom, workplace and community with one act against antisemitism for each night of the holiday: 

• On November 28, 2021, JCRC of Greater Washington, AJC Washington, D.C. and ADL Washington, D.C. are excited to take part in an event sponsored by the Philos Project as part of the Shine a Light campaign. Kick off the evening at the premier Chanukah celebration in Washington DC. Join the DC area Jewish community for the National Menorah Lighting  from 3:15 pm to 5:45 pm. Then, at 6:30 pm, the Philos Project will be hosting a dinner for Shine a Light participants. This is an opportunity to engage in interfaith dialogue and discussion about antisemitism while celebrating the first night of Chanukah! Join us at Char Bar, located at 2142 L St NW, Washington DC. You can RSVP here. 
• Read Jonathan Greenblatt’s latest op-ed in The Washington Post to learn about a new front in the fight against antisemitism. 
• Encourage schools that you’re connected with to teach about the Holocaust and contemporary antisemitism through our education programs, digital courses and resources. 
• Tell your Senators to confirm Professor Deborah Lipstadt to serve as the U.S. State Department’s next Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism. 

ADL In Concert Against Hate invites you to a night of music, community and celebration packed with spectacular, can’t-miss performances from acclaimed stars. This entirely virtual event gives you a front-row seat anywhere around the globe. This will be an unforgettable night with special musical guests and renowned stars including Grammy-winner Gloria Estefan and multi-platinum singer Josh Groban. 

Through storytelling and song, we’ll introduce you to real-life heroes and celebrate their extraordinary acts of courage and compassion in the face of bigotry and hate. Register now to be part of the powerful chorus fighting hate for good and honoring those leading the way. 

ADL Updates

ADL offers timely information, statements and resources in response to regional and national trending topics. Check out the links below to see what we are talking about:
 

• "Nonprofit security grants are vital to protecting America's religious communities" - The Hill
• Social Pattern Library: A collection of design patterns and principles for mitigating the presence and spread of online hate and harassment in social platforms.
• What is Critical Race Theory and Why Is it in the News So Much: Engage your family in conversation about what Critical Race Theory is, the laws being passed under the name of “critical race theory” and “divisive concepts” and why it’s important to discuss racism and other forms of oppression. 

Is Your Synagogue Part of ADL’s Signature Synagogue Program? 

ADL Washington, D.C.'s Regional Signature Synagogue Program is an important way to engage our community and ignite a congregation-wide commitment to raising awareness of and speaking out against antisemitism and hate. This program creates a unifying initiative for community education and engagement. Participants in the Signature Synagogue Program will have special direct access to ADL's programs, resources and learning opportunities. This is an ongoing year-long program where each synagogue will receive recognition of participation and granted be a certificate of completion. 

For more information, contact ADL Washington, D.C.