On October 6, our Federation joined fellow members of the Palm Beach County Hate Crimes Task Force at the County Commission meeting for a recognition that speaks directly to our work: United Against Hate Week. 

The Commission recognized the observance during the third week of October each year and proclaimed October 18–24, 2026, this year’s United Against Hate Week. The message was clear: everyone deserves to live, work, and feel safe in their community, and we all have a role in making that possible. 

Working together, year-round 

As a member of the task force, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County works alongside community organizations, government agencies, and law enforcement partners to address antisemitism and all forms of hate. 

Established at the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office in October 2024, the task force supports victims of hate crimes and raises awareness through education and outreach. It also creates space for people from different backgrounds to share concerns, learn from one another, and work toward common goals. 

“Hate doesn’t exist in isolation, and neither can our response to it,” said Brandey Edelson, Federation’s Vice President of Public Affairs. “Through the Hate Crimes Task Force, we bring the concerns of our Jewish community to the table, and we listen to what our neighbors are experiencing. The work of the task force builds trust, establishes important partnerships, and makes Palm Beach County a safer place for everyone.” 

A week to put that commitment into action 

The proclamation invites residents, businesses, schools, and faith-based organizations to participate in activities that encourage respect, unity, and inclusion. It recognizes that education, dialogue, and compassion can help build understanding across communities. 

For us, the week is an opportunity to bring more people into the work our task force does throughout the year. That can begin with a conversation, learning about a neighbor’s experience, or speaking up when we encounter prejudice.

“Our Jewish community knows what it means to need allies, and we take seriously our responsibility to be one in return,” said Igor Alterman, Federation’s President and CEO. “When hate targets any of our neighbors in Palm Beach County, they should find us standing beside them.” 

Thank you to the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners and our fellow task force members for their commitment. We’re proud to be part of this effort, and to help carry it forward beyond a single week. 

Visit jewishboca.org/PublicAffairs to learn more about Jewish Boca’s Public Affairs initiatives.