By 
Empowering San Diego to Stand Up for Israel and the Jewish People
Whether in classrooms, city halls, houses of worship, or neighborhood gatherings, San Diego has not been immune to the alarming rise in the antisemitism seen across the country. At a time when misinformation and division are becoming increasingly common, StandWithUs Southwest is bringing people together through education, partnership, and meaningful dialogue.
Founded in May of 2001, StandWithUs is an international nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to supporting Israel and combating antisemitism through education. StandWithUs is unique in that it reaches millions around the world, advancing its mission through K–12 education, campus initiatives, Holocaust education, legal protection of Jewish civil rights, leadership development, digital resources, and community engagement. Across San Diego, StandWithUs Southwest has become a trusted resource for students, civic leaders, multifaith communities, and families. StandWithUs works every day to prevent antisemitism through education while empowering people to stand up for Israel and the Jewish people.
Preparing the next generation of leaders is central to the mission of StandWithUs. This school year, seven San Diego-area high schools will participate in the Kenneth Leventhal High School Internship, while students from four local college campuses will serve as StandWithUs Emerson Fellows, joining hundreds of Leventhals and Emersons across the country and around the world. Together, these leadership programs prepare students to educate their peers, build meaningful relationships, and respond confidently to antisemitism.
Through educational programming focused on Israel, antisemitism, and human rights, StandWithUs creates opportunities for learning, dialogue, and meaningful community engagement. From welcoming renowned speakers such as Einat Wilf, Dumisani Washington, Noa Tishby, and Michael Rapaport to hosting family programs, educational webinars, and community conversations, the organization equips people with the knowledge and confidence to engage thoughtfully. Thismonth, the community will welcome Judge Roy Altman, author of Israel on Trial, for an evening exploring common false allegations made against Israel through a legal and historical lens.
Education is paired with action. Through its SaidoffLegal Department and Center for Combating Antisemitism, StandWithUs provides legal guidance for those experiencing antisemitism and recently joined a landmark federal lawsuit challenging California educational practices that plaintiffs argue discriminated against Jewish students.
Locally, the StandWithUs Antisemitism Task Force brings together law enforcement, elected officials, interfaith leaders, and community organizations to combat antisemitism through collaboration. The Task Force has helped advance adoption of the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, including its adoption by the City of San Diego, while hosting multifaith events that foster understanding and create opportunities to hear from diverse perspectives and new voices.
Education extends far beyond the classroom. StandWithUs Southwest has led immersive educational missions to Portugal, Spain, Morocco, and Poland, giving participants the opportunity to explore Jewish history, deepen their understanding of Israel, and reflect on resilience, identity, and the lessons of history.
That commitment to education continues here at home. This year, StandWithUs brought Holocaust survivors into local classrooms to share their firsthand experiences with more than 2,000 students, ensuring the lessons of the Holocaust continue to educate and inspire the next generation.
On October 18, the StandWithUs Southwest Gala will celebrate the partnerships that make this work possible. The evening will feature keynote speaker Loay Alshareef, a leading voice for peace and dialogue with Israel, and a special performance by Israeli musician Idan Raichel. The event will also honor Jenny Josephson while celebrating the enduring legacy of her late husband, Julian Josephson, whose commitment to Jewish education, Israel, and the San Diego community continues to inspire generations.
As the challenges facing the Jewish community continue to evolve, so does StandWithUs Southwest’s dedication to educating, empowering, and building bridges. The organization is helping create a future where understanding triumphs over hate and every person has the confidence to stand up for Israel and the Jewish people.
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