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UJCVP to Sponsor Antisemitism Discussion at Local Social Justice Conference

The UJCVP is proud to sponsor a critical and timely session at the Hampton Roads Social Justice Conference on Wednesday, April 16 at 1:00 PM. The session, titled "Understanding Antisemitism: History, Impact, and Strategies for Allyship," seeks to shed light on the pervasive issue of antisemitism, a form of hatred that has affected Jewish communities for centuries. This session will provide attendees with an opportunity to better understand the historical roots and modern-day manifestations of antisemitism, explore its intersections with other forms of discrimination, and equip them with practical tools for allyship.

In recent years, there has been a disturbing rise in anti-Jewish rhetoric and incidents across the globe, which has prompted urgent calls for action. Yet despite its long history, antisemitism is often overlooked or misunderstood in social justice work. This session aims to change that by providing a comprehensive overview of how antisemitism affects individuals and communities both in the past and present.

The panel discussion will feature expert voices, including:

  • Eric Maurer, CEO of the UJCVP, who will offer valuable insights on how antisemitism manifests within our society and ways to address it effectively.
  • Meagan Starks, Director of the Hampton Roads Program at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, who will share her expertise on diversity and inclusion, and how it intersects with the fight against antisemitism.
  • Dr. Amy Milligan, Director of the Institute for Jewish Studies and Interfaith Dialogue at Old Dominion University, who will provide an academic perspective on the historical and contemporary dimensions of antisemitism.

Together, this esteemed panel will discuss the history and societal impact of antisemitism, while also providing concrete strategies for individuals and organizations to recognize and challenge antisemitic behavior. A key focus of the session will be on allyship—understanding how to be a supportive partner in confronting this form of hatred and fostering solidarity with Jewish communities.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of antisemitism’s impact, as well as practical tools for combating this harmful ideology within their own communities and broader social justice efforts. The session will underscore the importance of solidarity, not only as an academic or theoretical concept but as an actionable strategy for change.

This session is especially relevant for anyone engaged in social justice, inclusion, or equity work, as it will highlight how combating antisemitism is integral to creating an inclusive and just society for all. The goal is to build a more informed and united movement that actively supports Jewish communities and integrates awareness of antisemitism into larger social justice initiatives.

Don’t miss this vital conversation at the Hampton Roads Social Justice Conference, which is co-hosted by Christopher Newport University’s Center for Crime, Equity, and Justice Research and Policy, and the Hampton Roads CCD Local Network. The conference will take place on April 15-16, 2025, on the campus of Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Virginia, and will bring together researchers, policy makers, community activists, non-profit organizations, business leaders, and others from across the region to discuss pressing social justice issues.

For more information or inquiries about the conference, please reach out to Dr. Laine Briddell, Associate Director, Center for Crime, Equity, and Justice Research and Policy at ccejrp@cnu.edu or Charles Cheek, Hampton Roads CCD Network Coordinator at hamptonroadsccdnetwork@gmail.com.

Join us at the conference, and be a part of this crucial discussion on understanding and confronting antisemitism.