(Washington, D.C., Feb. 8, 2022)—B’nai B’rith International President Seth J. Riklin and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin have issued the following statement:

As the Senate Foreign Relations Committee holds the long-awaited confirmation hearing for Deborah Lipstadt as State Department Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism, we urge the committee to swiftly confirm her for the post. Lipstadt is eminently qualified for this critical role, having actively engaged in the fight against anti-Semitism through her long, distinguished career as a historian and a professor.

The delay of Lipstadt’s confirmation has left a vacuum, with no one serving in this vitally important role of anti-Semitism special envoy. In the face of a surge of anti-Semitism globally, the U.S. must continue to assume a leadership position in the fight against this hatred through the person of the special envoy.

We call on the committee to confirm Lipstadt to the role and for the full Senate to approve her following the committee’s approval.

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 www.bnaibrith.org