Standing Against Hate and Standing for Unity
In line with our mission to empower Vermont communities against antisemitism, Shalom Alliance works with local leaders and residents to respond to hate at every level.
Anti-Israel, antisemitic ballot measures were introduced in seven Vermont communities. In addition, the same divisive language was raised in multiple other towns during open-floor discussions, giving voters little time to get the facts or make an informed decision.
The Good News:
Two ballot measures were defeated at the ballot box – Montpelier and Vergennes.
At least three towns rejected the measure on the floor – Ferrisburgh, Shelburne, and Bristol
The Challenge:
At least five communities passed this pledge — an effort that does nothing to promote peace and only serves to divide neighbors.
What Comes Next in Government?
The Vermont House of Representatives is now considering House Bill 310: An Act Relating to Education on the Evolving Nature of Antisemitism.
This bill would establish statewide antisemitism awareness education for elementary and secondary schools, similar to Vermont’s programs on alcohol and drug abuse prevention. Developed by the Secretary of Education in collaboration with Shalom Alliance of Vermont, the curriculum would:
Teach students about the history, effects, and consequences of antisemitism in Vermont, the U.S., and globally.
Provide training for school personnel to identify and address antisemitism by empowering educators to recognize and respond to antisemitism in all its forms, as our mission affirms.
Develop age-appropriate materials to educate students.
Strengthen Vermont’s legal definition of school harassment to explicitly include ethnic and antisemitic harassment.
This bill has bipartisan support from 33 sponsors. The two lead sponsors—Representative Matt Birong (D – Vergennes) and Representative Casey Toof (R – St. Albans Town)—are of different political parties, but they stand together with Vermont’s Jewish community in recognizing the urgency of this issue.
How You Can Help?
Invite five friends to join Shalom Alliance
Invite five friends to join Shalom Alliance. We’ll provide the materials they need to be informed and ready to speak up. Together, we can amplify our voices.
Speak Up
Reach out to your local and state representatives to request a meeting where you can share the challenges facing the Jewish community, express appreciation for their work, and urge them to speak up, vote NO, and focus on issues that truly matter to Vermonters.
Organize Teams
Mobilize your community to oppose antisemitic resolutions and stand up for Jewish rights. A united front makes a difference.
Make your voice heard
Reaching out to local and state officials is a powerful way to express concerns, speak up, ask questions, and begin dialogue. When people hear from us directly, it gives us the opportunity to build positive relationships and reinforces that Jewish community members and their allies are integral parts of communities across Vermont. Click below to access your representatives’ email addresses.