Thursday, Oct 8 | 7:00 PM
Cohen/Friedkin Sanctuary
Three years after the October 7 attacks on Israel, antisemitism continues to rise at alarming levels around the world, often framed as criticism of Israeli policy.
Yet this challenging moment has also inspired unprecedented advocacy, stronger partnerships, and a renewed commitment to standing up for the Jewish people.
Hear from former Congressman Ted Deutch, who represented Boca Raton in Congress for 12 years and now serves as CEO of American Jewish Committee (AJC), for a timely and inspiring conversation about the challenges we face, the opportunities to combat antisemitism through education, advocacy, and action, and how each of us can help strengthen our communities and build a more secure future.
The evening includes a Q&A, followed by an Israeli-themed dessert reception. Presented in partnership with Am Yisrael Chai auxiliary of Congregation B’nai Israel.
- Free for CBI Members & Hillel students
- $36 for Community Guests
- Guests must bring a valid photo ID
- Please leave extra time for getting through CBI Security
- RSVP by September 30
Register Here!
Ten From Ted
In his latest edition of Ten from Ted, AJC CEO Ted Deutch spotlights how American Jewish Committee (AJC) is supporting Jewish students and educators ahead of the academic year, ensuring they can learn, grow, and thrive in safe, inclusive, and supportive classrooms. Ted shares how AJC’s Center for Education Advocacy is leading these efforts, advancing policies, resources, and partnerships that strengthen Jewish life on campus.
CBI welcomes Ted Deutch to the Temple for THE FIGHT AGAINST ANTISEMITISM on Thursday, October 8, at 7:00 PM, in the Cohen/Friedkin Sanctuary. SEATS ARE LIMITED. RESERVE YOURS NOW!
CBI’s Exclusive Interview With AJC CEO Ted Deutch
Congregation B’nai Israel: Congregation B’nai Israel is excited to welcome you on Thursday, October 8. What will CBI Members learn about combating antisemitism?
Ted Deutch: I look forward to discussing the breadth of AJC’s work to strengthen Jewish life and confront antisemitism – through our Combatting Antisemitism Playbook, our partnerships with leaders in government, business, and tech, our work with university administrators and educators through our Center for Education Advocacy, our diplomatic meetings, and more. Antisemitism is a whole-of-society problem, and it demands a whole-of-society response.
CBI: According to the ADL, Florida ranks 4th of all states for reported antisemitic incidents. If you hear someone say something antisemitic, is there a safe way to confront them? What should you say?
TD: AJC encourages people to identify and challenge antisemitism while promoting understanding through education and respectful dialogue. If you hear someone make an antisemitic comment, it is important to speak up when it is safe to do so. A calm, direct response can help challenge harmful stereotypes and make clear that antisemitism is unacceptable. But safety should always come first. If someone is hostile or threatening, it may be best to disengage and report the incident if appropriate. Even a simple statement such as, “That’s not okay,” can help make clear that antisemitism has no place in our communities.
CBI: As the CEO of the American Jewish Committee (AJC), what’s your outlook for the future? Will things get better for Jewish people worldwide?
TD: We’re obviously in a difficult moment for the Jewish people everywhere, but I remain optimistic. Being at the U.N. General Assembly recently, I met with dozens of world leaders who wanted to do their part to support Jewish communities in their home nations and support Israel’s legitimacy on the world stage. The loudest voices in the room don’t always speak for the majority. As the question implied, history tells us the pendulum swings back. That’s not to say we can sit back and wait for that to happen. It’s a call for us to continue our advocacy, continue to engage with our partners around the world, and shape the next 10 or 20 years of the Jewish story, rather than the next 10 to 20 days.
CBI: As a strong and active Jewish community, what can Congregation B’nai Israel do collectively to help combat antisemitism?
TD: Keep showing up. Continue speaking out as proud Jews. Share your experiences with your friends and neighbors, especially those who aren’t Jewish. Antisemites want us to cower and to hide our Judaism, and if we do, antisemitism only grows. The best way to confront hate is to refuse to be defined by it.
