David Schwimmer Asks Jewish Hollywood Leaders to Speak Up Against Antisemitism: “Stand Up”

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On Tuesday, David Schwimmer urged his fellow Jewish colleagues in the entertainment industry to take a firm stance against anti-Semitism.

At the Anti-Defamation League’s annual Never Is Now gathering in New York, Schwimmer expressed his thoughts. Previously, Schwimmer has spoken out against antisemitism, even urging Elon Musk to remove Kanye West from Twitter due to his antisemitic statements and behavior.

During a conference held by the Anti-Defamation League in New York, Schwimmer spoke up. Earlier, Schwimmer had also criticized antisemitism, suggesting that Elon Musk ban Kanye West from Twitter due to his offensive comments and actions against Jews.

As a gamer, I’ve been fortunate enough to have a platform that allows me to express myself on matters close to my heart. On days when the stars align, I get to cut through the clamor that silences too many voices. In times like these, marked by peril, prejudice, and brutality, I feel it’s my duty, with the privilege bestowed upon me, to lend my voice to the cause.

As a passionate supporter, I’d express it like this: “Just like Schwimmer, I’ve come to realize that standing up for what’s right doesn’t always come without its challenges. I’ve faced attacks and threats from strangers, been betrayed by those I thought were friends, and even abandoned by organizations I once considered allies. Yet, in the midst of adversity, I’ve encountered moments of profound meaning and solidarity that remind me there are countless good people who stand with us. Let’s remember this: we have each other, we have our allies, and together, we will overcome. Our spirit is indomitable, our resilience unyielding, and our joy, uncontainable.

He went on to express, “I understand it’s tough to take a stand. Many individuals I admire, even some of my role models in the fields of entertainment, music, and sports, have decided to stay out of the fray. This includes some who have built their careers around embracing their Jewish heritage, as well as those who have earned recognition for portraying Jews on screen. Some are actively involved behind the scenes, making a difference quietly, but a significant number have chosen not to make any public statements at all. To them, if I may be frank:
I truly wish you would speak up.

Schwimmer passionately urged the crowd, “I’d be overjoyed if you all stood up. I’d be thrilled if you spoke out, as your voices would carry significant weight for your admirers who look up to you, for your neighbors who rely on you, and for those in need of a touch of unity at this very moment.

Regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, Schwimmer expressed, “It’s not necessary for you to resolve the Middle East crisis. Simply express that you stand with your fellow Jews, acquaintances, and neighbors against bigotry, and that the actions towards Jews on university campuses, in schools, and against Jewish businesses are completely intolerable.

He next brought up a quote by Elie Wiesel: “The opposite of love is not hate, it’s indifference.” He expanded on this, explaining that indifference means inaction and silence. In critical situations, it might seem prudent to remain quiet, stay hidden, and avoid drawing attention. However, he asserted that now is not the time for disappearance; instead, it’s the moment to be present, to interact with each other, to discover solidarity within our community, and to amplify our voices in unison. So, why don’t we act upon this?

Schwimmer ended his speech by highlighting that the Tuesday conference aimed to acknowledge a collective who are utilizing their influence, networks, and platforms to disseminate messages of optimism and unity, which resonate globally.

The Never Is Now conference, organized by the ADL and held on March 3rd and 4th, was hosted by Hen Mazzig. Gal Gadot was among the speakers, delivering a key address. In her speech, she reminded the audience that they may not have lived through a period of greater antisemitism in their lives, but it’s comforting to know that the ADL stands ready to protect them.

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2025-03-05 03:24