What’s happening:

At a significant summit in Florida, 50 mayors from cities across the United States have pledged to address the growing issue of antisemitism. The event also included expressions of solidarity with Israel and poignant addresses by family members of individuals held hostage by Hamas in Gaza.

Why it matters:

The rise in antisemitic incidents has created a sense of urgency among local leaders. The summit represents a concerted effort by city officials to combat hate crimes and support Jewish communities, reflecting a broader commitment to uphold democratic values of tolerance and inclusion.

By the numbers:

Following the Hamas attack on October 7, the Anti-Defamation League reported a 316% increase in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. compared to the previous year. This alarming trend is echoed worldwide, with significant spikes in antisemitic acts reported in countries such as Brazil, the Netherlands, the UK, Austria, and Germany.

Local responses:

Mayors are taking a stand, with initiatives like flying the Israeli flag at City Hall, despite facing opposition from groups like the “Jewish Voice for Peace.” The summit highlighted the need for proactive measures at the municipal level to ensure the safety and security of Jewish communities.

Voices from the summit:

Mayor Trentalis emphasized the importance of unity and tangible change in the fight against antisemitism. The emotional peak of the event was the heartfelt pleas from relatives of Hamas hostages, urging attendees to help bring their loved ones home.

The bigger picture:

While the summit focused on antisemitism, it also underscored the global challenge of addressing hate and extremism. The solidarity with Israel and the personal stories shared reflect a broader commitment to combating intolerance and promoting peace.

This story was first published on ynetnews.