Somerset Times

On May 14, 2024, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) led a roundtable discussion in Bernardsville, NJ, addressing the rising tide of antisemitism both in New Jersey and across the United States. The event was attended by Rabbis, Jewish leaders, local elected officials, and high school and college students from New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.

The Anti-Defamation League has reported a significant increase in antisemitic incidents since Hamas' unexpected attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023. The rise is marked at 140% compared to the previous year.

“There is no place in this world for antisemitism,” Congressman Kean stated. “It is crucial that all of us – federal, state, and local officials, community leaders, students, and individuals alike work together to combat the scourge of antisemitism. I thank everyone who came to join me at this roundtable. I look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure the safety of the Jewish community in New Jersey, across the nation and around the globe.”

Rabbi Inna Serebro-Litvak commended Congressman Kean's efforts saying: “Since October 7, Congressman Tom Kean Jr. has been an amazing supporter of the Jewish community! Whether voting for aid for Israel in Congress or urging President Biden not to cut the supply of weapons crucial in the war with Hamas or speaking out against antisemitism on college campuses."

Dov Ben-Shimon, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest expressed gratitude for these discussions given recent events at Rutgers University and increasing attacks against Jews in New Jersey.

Casey Isser, Westfield High School Student Government President thanked Congressman Kean for hosting this important discussion about growing antisemitism nationwide.

Robin Freeman Kramer from Jewish Federation of West-Central New Jersey appreciated Congressman Kean's advocacy against hate and support for the Jewish community.

Lisa Harris Glass, CEO of Rutgers Hillel, expressed gratitude to Congressman Kean for his attention to the plight of Jewish people in New Jersey and across the country.

Springfield Deputy Mayor Harris Laufer and Bridgewater Councilman Michael Kirsh also praised Congressman Kean's unwavering support for Israel and his clear stance against antisemitism.