Governor Tarcísio reaffirms commitment to Jewish community security at Fisesp
São Paulo, August 3, 2026 – Governor of São Paulo, Tarcísio de Freitas, attended on Monday (3) a meeting organized by the Jewish Federation of the State of São Paulo (Fisesp), bringing together business leaders, members of the Jewish community, state authorities, and guests. Held at the Federation’s headquarters, the event marked the governor’s first official engagement following the confirmation of his candidacy for re-election.
Welcomed by Fisesp president Célia Parnes, the governor joined an open dialogue on issues of concern to the Jewish community and Brazilian society, including the rise of antisemitism, combating hate speech, the security of community institutions, religious freedom, education for tolerance, and the strengthening of democracy.
The meeting featured remarks from former Foreign Minister Celso Lafer and Fisesp’s Director of Government Relations, Daniel Kignel, and was moderated by CEO Ricardo Berkiensztat. They reflected on the importance of democratic institutions, Brazil–Israel relations, and the fight against antisemitism.
In her opening address, Célia Parnes emphasized that defending the Jewish community transcends the interests of a single group and represents a commitment to democratic values.
Protecting the Jews of São Paulo is not a Jewish cause. It is about affirming a boundary that matters to all of society. It is about defending a democratic principle that protects every citizen. Under your administration, Governor, neutrality in the face of antisemitism is not possible, she stated.
She further warned that the growth of antisemitism in Brazil and worldwide demands constant vigilance. “Fanaticism never makes exceptions. Those who imagine they will be spared because it serves them today have not understood how it works. After eliminating its adversaries, it turns against those who once walked alongside it.”
Governor Tarcísio reaffirmed São Paulo’s commitment to protecting the Jewish community, combating antisemitism, and defending democratic values. He recalled that São Paulo was the first Brazilian state to officially adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, accompanied by teacher training and educational initiatives promoting tolerance and confronting prejudice.
He also highlighted Brazil’s historic friendship with Israel, recognizing it as a strategic ally and a vital democracy for Middle East stability. Expressing concern over rising intolerance and radicalization, particularly in universities, he cited reports of discrimination against Jewish students and professors.
We cannot allow space for intolerance. São Paulo is an example of coexistence, diversity, and respect for differences, and we will continue working so that everyone can live their faith and identity with safety and freedom, he said.
Beyond antisemitism, the governor outlined key initiatives of his administration in public security, health, sanitation, housing, and urban mobility. He also answered questions from participants on national politics, Brazil–Israel relations, and the challenges posed by extremism and intolerance.
The event concluded with a blessing from Rabbi Dov Goldberg, who invoked the Hebrew word *mentch*—used to describe a person of integrity, honor, humility, and commitment to the common good—wishing that these values continue to guide the governor and all public servants.
This meeting is part of a series of institutional dialogues organized by Fisesp with candidates in the 2026 elections, reaffirming the Federation’s commitment to democratic, plural, and nonpartisan debate, providing a platform for candidates to present proposals and discuss issues relevant to the Jewish community and Brazilian society.
