#United States #New York #Stand Up Sunday #Interfaith Coalition #Jewish Hate

Interfaith Solidarity Against Hate

On September 7, 2025, a significant movement known as 'Stand Up Sunday' galvanized faith communities across the United States. Spearheaded by the Appeal of Conscience Foundation and the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, this initiative aimed to address the alarming rise of antisemitic hate speech and violence. The day saw over one million participants, gathering in Houses of Worship from diverse faiths, united in a singular message: now is the time to end antisemitism and all forms of hate based on religious beliefs.

The backdrop for this historic demonstration was grim, with numerous incidents of hate crimes targeting places of worship in recent years. One particularly tragic event was the mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School, underscoring the vulnerability of worshippers. This resolute gathering was not just a call to action but a stark reminder of the real-world implications of unchecked hatred towards any faith group.

Across various locations—St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York, Mother Emanuel Church in Charleston, and many others—communities came together for services dedicated to raising awareness about growing antisemitism. Different religious leaders, including those from the Catholic Archdiocese, Greek Orthodox Churches, Armenian Churches, and numerous synagogues, all shared the platform to emphasize unity in the fight against hate.

The symbolic gesture of handing out blue squares was a focal point of the event. This emblem, adopted by the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, serves as a marker of solidarity in the fight against Jewish hate and broader intolerance. #

Direct Challenges Ahead

Recent statistics underscore the urgency surrounding this initiative. The FBI reported a record increase in hate crimes against Jewish individuals, constituting around 70% of all religious-based hate crimes, with five occurrences daily. Such alarming figures have led the U.S. Department of Justice to classify these attacks as acts of terrorism. The community response during Stand Up Sunday aimed to convey that these attacks are not isolated incidents; they strike at the heart of every faith, challenging the core of religious freedom and mutual respect.

As faith leaders like Rabbi Arthur Schneier, founder of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation, put it, “Attacking a house of worship hits the jugular vein of every faith community.” This sentiment was echoed by Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, who emphasized that silence in the face of such hatred is complicity, urging for a united front against all forms of bigotry.

A Call to Action

In the face of rising antisemitism and violence, Stand Up Sunday emanated a strong message of peace and collaboration. According to Robert Kraft, founder of the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, the united stand was not just about awareness but an active call to inspire action against hate. The interfaith event, linked with the ACF's campaign aimed at fostering mutual respect, sought to highlight the necessity of standing together amidst a backdrop of division and intolerance.

As communities gathered to share prayers, testimonials, and commitments, it was clear that the essence of faith included standing up for one another, rejecting hate in all its forms. The movement sought not just to foster dialogue but to become a catalyst for real change, urging all involved to be active participants in creating a world rooted in understanding and respect.

Looking Forward

With the research from FCAS suggesting that over 25% of Americans now harbor antisemitic attitudes—an increase of around 26 million people—initiatives like Stand Up Sunday are essential in reshaping perceptions and galvanizing allies. The challenge ahead is immense, but through unity and the reinforcement of shared values, communities can strive towards ensuring that places of worship remain sanctuaries for peace rather than targets of hate.

In the collective call, 'we are all God's children,' faith leaders and their followers reaffirm their commitment to mutual respect, dignity, and an enduring fight against hatred in all its forms. By standing together, they illustrate the strength derived from faith and community, aspiring to create a world where diversity is celebrated, and all individuals can worship freely and without fear.

In summary, Stand Up Sunday serves as a powerful reminder that collective action, fueled by profound empathy and steadfast commitment towards shared human values, is vital in combating rising tides of hate that threaten the moral fabric of society.