(Washington, D.C., March 31, 2022)–B’nai B’rith International President Seth J. Riklin and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin have issued the following statement:   
 
We applaud the U.S. Senate for confirming Deborah Lipstadt as the State Department’s special envoy to monitor and combat anti-Semitism. Lipstadt, who has spent her long and distinguished career as a professor and historian actively engaged in the fight against anti-Semitism, is eminently qualified for this role.

As anti-Semitism has spiked around the world in many forms, including Holocaust revisionism and vociferous anti-Israel hatred, Lipstadt’s work as special envoy will be vitally important. Anti-Semitism must be confronted wherever it occurs, whether it be on the far right, the far left, among radical extremist groups or on the internet.
 
As envoy, Lipstadt will lead the State Department’s efforts to monitor and combat hatred of Jews on a global scale, as well as consult with foreign governments on ways to halt anti-Semitic movements and prosecute individuals who carry out acts of hate against Jewish communities. Filling the position with someone of Lipstadt’s caliber sends a strong message to the world that combating anti-Semitism is, and should be, a top priority of U.S. foreign policy.

B’nai B’rith looks forward to working with Ambassador-designate Lipstadt in combating the world’s oldest hatred on a global scale.

B’nai B’rith International has advocated for global Jewry and championed the cause of human rights since 1843. B’nai B’rith is recognized as a vital voice in promoting Jewish unity and continuity, a staunch defender of the State of Israel, a tireless advocate on behalf of senior citizens and a leader in disaster relief. With a presence around the world, we are the Global Voice of the Jewish Community. Visit bnaibrith.org.