Capital District Times

United States Ambassador-Designate to the United Nations, Elise Stefanik, addressed the Anti-Defamation League’s “Never Is Now” Summit in New York. The summit is recognized as the world's largest event focused on combating antisemitism.

In her remarks, Stefanik expressed gratitude towards the ADL for its leadership and thanked Jonathan Greenblatt for his invitation and collaboration with Congress on addressing antisemitism. She emphasized the importance of acting against antisemitic atrocities witnessed both domestically and internationally over recent years.

Stefanik referenced Simon Wiesenthal's words, "For evil to flourish, it only requires good men to do nothing," asserting that under President Trump, America would not remain inactive. She stated her commitment as a leader in Congress and as the future U.S. Ambassador to ensure that antisemitism is extinguished.

Reflecting on her personal connections with Jewish communities from her upbringing in Upstate New York to her experiences at Harvard University, Stefanik highlighted Israel's significance as a beacon of freedom and civilization closely linked with America's success.

She criticized universities for failing Jewish students following recent attacks and recounted a pivotal moment during congressional hearings where she questioned university presidents about their stance on genocide calls against Jews. The questioning exposed what she described as moral failings within higher education institutions.

Stefanik praised President Trump's administration for taking steps to combat campus antisemitism through executive orders and investigations into universities like Columbia and Northwestern. She acknowledged incoming Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Attorney General Pam Bondi for their roles in holding these institutions accountable.

As Ambassador-designate, Stefanik vowed to address what she termed rampant anti-Israel sentiment within the United Nations. She pledged not to support organizations counteracting U.S. interests or funding terrorism-related activities.

Citing President Trump's pro-Israel policies, including moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and negotiating the Abraham Accords, Stefanik argued that strong American leadership could prevent events like those on October 7th from occurring again.

In closing, Stefanik assured unwavering support for Israel under President Trump’s administration while promising decisive action against UN entities such as UNRWA associated with Hamas activities. She urged collective efforts to combat antisemitism globally.