The Jewish Federation of Cleveland hosted its first Education Leaders Summit in March 2025 to address the sharp rise in hatred targeting Jewish students. More than 100 superintendents, principals, school board members, and diversity professionals from over 50 public, private, and parochial schools across Northeast Ohio gathered for a full day of learning. The summit aimed to deepen school leaders’ understanding of Jewish identity, rising antisemitism, and strategies for creating safer, more inclusive environments.
The program opened with an overview of Jewish history and Zionism, which many participants were encountering for the first time. Other sessions examined how antisemitism appears in schools today, followed by case studies on antisemitic harassment and controversial online speech. Afternoon breakout sessions explored Holocaust education, legal considerations, and approaches to civil discourse, with many attendees valuing the chance to learn from peers across school systems.
Participants described the summit as eye-opening, meaningful, and inspiring. Federation and its partners continue to follow up with school-specific resources and planning future summits to continue this important work.
The event was supported by the Laura and Alvin Siegal College of Judaic Studies Educational Foundation.
of Jewish Americans are concerned
about antisemitism.
of Jewish Americans experienced antisemitism in 2024. More than half of U.S. Jews report personally experiencing antisemitism online, in public spaces, schools, workplaces, or near Jewish institutions.
The Maltz Museum fosters understanding and combats hate by sharing Jewish history through the lens of the American experience. As a Federation beneficiary agency, it has become a vital space where both the Jewish and general community can learn about tolerance, acceptance, and the diverse cultures that shape Cleveland.
Each year, thousands of students from Cleveland-area schools experience the museum’s exhibits. These student tours emphasize inquiry-based learning, encouraging young people to think critically as docents pose open-ended questions and invite reflection.
Through its permanent and rotating exhibits, the museum highlights the many cultural threads woven into Cleveland’s identity. By presenting stories of Jewish life alongside broader narratives of immigration, civil rights, and community-building, the museum helps visitors recognize shared experiences and appreciate differences.
For more than 20 years, the Maltz Museum has served as a bridge –connecting people, challenging assumptions, and inspiring a deeper commitment to stopping the spread of hate. Its impact continues to grow as new generations walk through its doors and carry its lessons into the wider community.
In December 2025, a brutal attack at a public Chanukah menorah lighting in Sydney’s Bondi Beach claimed 15 innocent lives and shattered what should have been a moment of celebration. The violence sent shockwaves across Jewish communities worldwide, reminding many how fragile joy can feel in times of rising hatred.
In response, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland hosted a “Shine a Light” gathering that centered on remembrance and ritual. Community members came together to mourn the victims, pray for the wounded, and hold space for shared grief.
As part of the evening, participants lit a menorah to commemorate the sixth night of Chanukah. The quiet act carried deep meaning – affirming that even in the shadow of violence, Jewish tradition calls us to bring light, to stand together, and to choose hope.
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