Notes from David Schwimmer's Speech on Anti-Semitism

Introduction

• Speaker: David Schwimmer
• Context: Speech addressing anti-Semitism and community solidarity.
• Acknowledgments: Thanks to Jonathan Greenblatt and the ADL (Anti-Defamation League) for their leadership and efforts.

Key Points

• Platform and Responsibility

  • Schwimmer discusses the privilege of his career to address pressing issues.
  • Emphasizes responsibility to speak out against bigotry and violence.

• Personal Experiences

  • Shares personal attacks and threats he has faced for speaking out.
  • Highlights abandonment by friends and organizations, but also finds solidarity and support from good people.

• Call to Action for Public Figures

  • Encourages celebrities to use their platforms to support the Jewish community.
  • Suggests it's not necessary to engage in political debates, but to show solidarity against hate.
  • Encourages sharing personal anecdotes (e.g., posting Bar Mitzvah pictures) as a form of solidarity.

The Importance of Speaking Up

• Opposite of Love is Indifference

  • Quoting Elie Wiesel: Indifference leads to inaction and silence.
  • Emphasizes the need to be vocal in moments of danger, rather than retreating into silence.

• Collective Strength

  • Encourages reaching out to others and finding strength in community.
  • Reminds attendees of the importance of raising voices together to change perceptions and combat anti-Semitism.

Recognition of Heroes Against Hate

• Schwimmer introduces individuals who are using their platforms to combat anti-Semitism.
• Recognizes various heroes including influencers, actors, students, and others who advocate against hate.
• Calls for a unified movement against hate, urging attendees to participate through social media.

Conclusion

• Movement Against Hate
  • Emphasizes that the fight against anti-Semitism doesn't end with the speech.
  • Calls for ongoing commitment to activism and advocacy against hate.

Additional Remarks by Clatt

• Clatt comments on the speech and the importance of not idolizing Hollywood figures.

  • Critiques the lack of public support from Jewish actors in Hollywood regarding anti-Semitism and Israel.
  • Suggests that real leadership comes from individuals who are not famous, emphasizing authenticity over celebrity.

• Representation in Advocacy

  • Advocates for the inclusion of diverse Jewish voices, especially Mizrahi Jews, in discussions about anti-Semitism.
  • Calls for a broader representation within the Jewish community to better combat anti-Semitism in the public sphere.

Closing Thoughts

• Clatt emphasizes the need for authenticity and a diverse representation in the fight against anti-Semitism, pushing for a more inclusive narrative.