In his address, Smith said: "We fully agree that religious tolerance is an essential component of the Inter-American Convention Against Discrimination. We also believe that anti-Semitism should be listed as a form of discrimination.  Anti-Semitism continues to be one of the world's most venomous forms of intolerance. It is a distinct and insidious form of discrimination and should be listed as such. We must remain aware that this form of hatred has not disappeared from the globe. In fact, anti-Semitism is on the rise. Latin America is increasingly falling victim to anti-Semitism. We must continue to be aware, raise awareness, and educate people about all forms of discrimination."

Smith also noted the importance of commemorating January 27 as Holocaust Remembrance Day with educational programs in 14 Latin American nations.

Smith, along with Director of Latin America Affairs Eduardo Kohn, and longtime B'nai B'rith Latin America leader Leon Birbragher, is taking part in high-level meetings with member nations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This year marks the 60^th anniversary of the OAS.  

Through the OAS, 34 member countries in the Western Hemisphere discuss issues of importance to the region and the world. The group works on issues such as human rights, poverty, terrorism, and illegal drug trafficking.

During the course of these annual meetings, the BBI group also met with OAS officers, the Israeli delegation, and other NGOs. Delegations from around the world take part as observers, so they can keep updated on issues important to the Americas.

The BBI team also met with Colombian Foreign Minister Fernando Araujo to discuss combating terrorism, and  the Brazilian delegation to discuss Durban II, the upcoming global summit on racism. Kohn will attend planning sessions for Durban II. BBI's leaders also took part in an informal dialogue with OAS Secretary General Jose Insulza.

A constant theme that the BBI delegation brought up in its meetings is that poverty and inequity must be addressed together. B'nai B'rith believes that discrimination must be addressed through the approval of the Inter-American Convention Against Discrimination; and poverty must be addressed through programs that cover assistance, education, and the joint work between NGOs and governments.