(Courtesy of Office of Josh Gottheimer) On May 24, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), during Jewish American Heritage Month, visited Yavneh Academy and spoke to middle school students about his work as co-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, working across the aisle to find common ground, leading bipartisan efforts to support the U.S.-Israel relationship and how students can make positive changes throughout their communities. Gottheimer also spent time taking questions from students on topics regarding combatting the BDS movement, addressing the rise in antisemitism, substance abuse among teens, bullying and more.

“With antisemitic attacks and hate crimes of all kinds on the rise, I was glad to have the opportunity to visit Yavneh Academy and speak with students and educators about the critical work it takes to bridge divides and solve problems,” said Gottheimer. “As we fight to end all forms of hate, we must protect against any politically motivated efforts to undermine the historic, bipartisan U.S.-Israel relationship, and our key partner in the Middle East.”

This month, Gottheimer helped lead a bipartisan resolution to condemn rising antisemitism, which passed the House of Representatives. According to the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) annual audit, the overall number of antisemitic incidents in New Jersey rose by 25% last year—the most ever recorded in New Jersey by the ADL since tracking began.