Stepping Out of the Darkness: ‘My name is Gal, and I’m Jewish’

“My name is Gal, and I’m Jewish.”

With those six simple words, Gal Gadot did what so many in the entertainment industry refuse to do—she stood up, proudly and fearlessly, in defense of the Jewish people. At the Anti-Defamation League’s Never Is Now summit, she used her platform to send a clear message: the time for silence is over. The time to stand against Jew-hatred is now.

At a time when antisemitism is surging at an unprecedented rate, it has never been more critical for public figures to use their voices. Yet Hollywood, the media, and even many of our own community leaders have remained silent. Gal Gadot’s courage should not be an exception—it should be the norm. Her words, her unwavering pride, and her willingness to stand in the face of rising hate serve as a rallying cry for every Jew worldwide: we must step out of the shadows and fight for our future.

The World Won’t Defend Us—We Must Defend Ourselves

Gadot’s speech was more than just a powerful moment—it was a necessary wake-up call. As she pointed out, the October 7 massacre was a turning point. It exposed the reality that hatred against Jews isn’t just an abstract concept—it is real, it is violent, and it is celebrated by many who claim to champion human rights. She spoke of the horrific realization that, rather than condemning Hamas, many around the world chose to justify and even glorify the mass murder of Jews. This is not just another political disagreement. This is existential. And yet, the same voices who so readily stand against racism, bigotry, and oppression have turned their backs on the Jewish people. As Gadot said, we cannot afford to wait for others to support us. We must be there for ourselves. We must be vocal, visible, and unwavering in our commitment to combating antisemitism. We must call it out, challenge it, and confront it wherever it festers—whether in politics, on campuses, in the media, or in our own communities.

Jewish Leaders Are Taking Action—But We Need More

It is important to acknowledge that some Jewish leaders are indeed stepping up, working tirelessly to combat antisemitism and ensure a vibrant Jewish future. Organizations, activists, and community leaders have been relentless in their fight, advocating for our rights, confronting misinformation, and creating safe spaces for Jewish life to flourish. Their work is critical, and it deserves recognition. But it is not enough. Antisemitism is not slowing down—it is growing, adapting, and infecting new spaces. We need more than just a handful of leaders speaking out. We need a collective, unified movement. Every Jew must take part, whether through education, activism or simply refusing to hide their identity.

Empowering the Next Generation to Be Proud and Unafraid

The Jewish people have survived for more than 2,000 years, and we will continue to survive. That is not in question. But survival alone is not enough. We need to ensure that the next generation of Jews grows up empowered, proud, and unafraid to embrace their identity.

Young Jews today are facing a world where antisemitism is becoming increasingly normalized. Many feel pressured to hide their Jewishness, to downplay their connection to Israel, or to remain silent in the face of hostility. This is unacceptable.

We must give them the tools, confidence, and inspiration to stand tall, celebrate who they are, and know that being Jewish is not something to be whispered but something to be shouted with pride. Whether through education, mentorship, or community-building, we must invest in the future of Jewish resilience.

Never Again Means Never Again

We often say, “Never Again.” But words are meaningless unless backed by action. Gal Gadot has set the example—it’s time for the rest of us to follow. Whether in Hollywood, in politics, in academia, or everyday life, we must ensure that Jew-hatred is confronted and defeated. We cannot afford to be passive observers. We are responsible for ensuring that the Jewish people not only survive but thrive. The darkness of antisemitism is growing, but we have the power to push back. The time for silence is over.

Step out of the darkness. Stand up. Speak out. The future of the Jewish people depends on it.