On Sunday evening, the American Jewish Congress’ (AJC) International Mayors Conference gathered for its 35th year in Jerusalem to commemorate the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht.
Also known as the Night of Broken Glass, Kristallnacht is remembered as a major escalation in the persecution of Jews in Europe. On November 9–10, 1938, Nazi-led pogroms targeted Jewish homes, businesses, and synagogues across Germany and Austria. Local authorities largely stood by as the violence unfolded, while some civilians actively participated in the attacks. Each year, a memorial ceremony is held in Jerusalem to remember the victims and the atrocities committed against the Jewish people.
The delegation at the event was joined by friend of The Fellowship and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. The ceremony included the lighting of memorial candles to honor the victims. The Jerusalem Post reports that Huckabee urged attendees to combat widespread misinformation about Israel by visiting the country, witnessing the reality firsthand, and sharing their experiences to confront prejudice.
“There are so many crazy things being said about Israel around the world that simply aren’t true. Israel needs more people to come here, see the reality with their own eyes, and then go home and simply tell people what they saw.”
Huckabee, a former governor of Arkansas, pointed to the influence municipal leaders can have on public attitudes and policy, drawing on his experience in local and state government.
“Mayors and governors have one thing in common: we actually get things done. You can wake up in the morning with an idea and have it implemented by the end of the day.”
The ambassador said the ability of local officials to translate ideas into action also carries significant leadership responsibilities, particularly in confronting prejudice and promoting cooperation between communities.
The gathering in Jerusalem helped strengthen relationships while promoting educational resources for communities seeking to deepen their connection to the Holy Land. During their visit, the delegation also explored Israel’s innovations and resilience despite years of war, widespread boycotts, and misinformation.
Today, The Fellowship and our supporters take a moment to remember the Night of Broken Glass and what it represents: the devastating consequences of anti-Semitism when left unchecked – or even encouraged. We pray for the Jewish people and stand in solidarity with the leaders who gathered in Jerusalem to commemorate this solemn anniversary.