Chabad UF will hold Rally of Solidarity and Unity in response to Antisemitism on Nov. 4

Press release from Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In the wake of recent anti-Semitic rhetoric displayed at the Jacksonville UFL and UGA Football game (and other recent anti-Semitic incidents locally), Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center is hosting a special solidarity gathering for the entire community. The event will take place on Friday, November 4, at 5:30 p.m. at 2021 NW 5th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32603.

Rabbi Berl Goldman, director of Chabad UF, called on all Americans and good people around the world to stand up to Antisemitism. “We must all stand up and proclaim, Anti-Semitism, Hate, Bias of any kind has NO HOME.”

The Rally was organized following many calls, texts, and emails from community members, students, faculty, alumni, and parents, expressing concern, outrage, and fear. The event will include prominent leaders from the University of Florida and City and County government officials, who will share brief words of support and inspiration.

“This gathering will help send a clear and supportive message that the anti-Semitic incident in Jacksonville (and other recent local anti-Semitic incidents) is a cowardly attempt by a minority of anti-Semites that just want to stoke fear and spread hate,” said Chanie Goldman, Co-director of the Chabad UF Jewish Student & Community Center

Inspired by the word of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of righteous memory, who in response to the antisemitic attacks on the Jewish community in the early 90s, spoke of the need for a single community, to join together in standing up to hate.

“In over twenty years of serving Jewish Life and Learning at UF and Alachua County – Gainesville, FL, my wife Chanie and I have always experienced a friendly, welcoming, and supportive community for everyone! Love, respect, and unity will always prevail,” said Rabbi Berl Goldman.