Earlier this month, the National Education Association’s (NEA) Representative Assembly—the annual gathering of the nation’s largest teachers’ union—passed a “new business item” calling for a boycott of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The ADL is a widely respected Jewish organization with a long-standing role in providing anti-bias education in K–12 schools and is a nationally recognized authority on antisemitism.

Although the NEA’s leadership swiftly vetoed the resolution, its passage sent a troubling message. It reflects a broader trend of marginalizing Jewish voices in educational spaces and highlights the growing need for policies that protect all students—especially those facing rising antisemitism.

According to the ADL, antisemitic incidents in K–12 schools have increased by 434% since 2020. In 2023 alone, there were 1,162 reported incidents; in 2024, 860 were already recorded—and many more go unreported. Jewish students and educators are increasingly facing harassment, bias, and isolation, undermining their ability to safely participate in school life.

Tell Governor Shapiro to take action against antisemitism in Pennsylvania schools by clicking here. 

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About the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia

Since 1901, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia has served as the hub of the region’s Jewish communities, providing an infrastructure of support for Jewish people and organizations in need. Through grants, emergency funding, restricted gifts, endowments, and our partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Schools, we annually invest in caring for those in need, combating antisemitism and global crisis, and securing a vibrant Jewish future. For more information, please visit: jewishphilly.org

Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is a non-partisan 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization that is subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding political activities, such as campaign activities and lobbying. While individuals have the right to express their political opinions and engage in political activities, as an organization, we do not support or attempt to influence political campaigns legislation, or initiatives either through donations or endorsements.