The Jed Foundation Stands Against Antisemitism

The Jed Foundation (JED) strongly condemns antisemitism across the United States, which is on the rise. There is a longstanding and documented history of discrimination and violence against Jewish communities in our country. These incidents–both in person and in digital spaces–are traumatic and contribute to an increase in fear, stress, anxiety, and psychological trauma, reinforcing a need for increased mental health support. Exposure to hate speech and discrimination causes distress and exacerbates existing mental health challenges. It also interrupts healthy identity development for adolescents and young adults.

We stand with Jewish communities and call on authorities to take every measure to hold perpetrators accountable and to keep Jewish communities safe. JED strongly condemns racism, xenophobia, and bias-motivated violence of any kind, and we encourage educators, caregivers, and anyone who works with youth to reach out and check in with young people who may be impacted by the current antisemitic violence across the nation.

We at JED believe that feeling safe and knowing that our friends, family, and community members are safe are essential to maintaining our mental health. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or unsafe, here are some things you can do:

• Text START to 741-741 or call 1-800-273-TALK (8253) for a confidential conversation anytime.
• Call your local emergency response number to report incidents to law enforcement.
• Check out our mental health resource center for information on taking care of ourselves and others during difficult times.
• Help with tracking hate by reporting incidents through the Anti-Defamation League tracker.
• Activism is good for mental health; learn how to engage.

Mental Health Resources:

• The Blue Dove Foundation works to address the issues of mental illness and addiction in the Jewish community and beyond.
• Jewish Queer Youth (JQY) supports LGBTQ identifying teens and young adults in the Jewish community. They also have a specific focus on Orthodox, Chasidic, and Sephardic communities.
• Jewish Teens Thrive lists mental health resources for teens.
• Relief Help provides emotional health referrals and education and support for the Jewish community.

Antisemitism Resources: 

• Confronting antisemitism
• What is antisemitism
• Dismantling antisemitism along with racism
• Empowering Jewish Youth to Respond to antisemitism 
• Guide for Parents on how to talk to teens about antisemitism
• Understanding hate symbols

We stand together to promote unity, inclusion, and safety for all.

In solidarity,
The JED Team