294. Combatting Hate + Activating a Global Movement of Hope - Jonathan Greenblatt

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Overview

Meet Jonathan. He believes in American exceptionalism, and is intently focused on uplifting unification and tamping down hate. He's leading the world's largest anti-hate organization, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), with a distinguished record of fighting antisemitism and advocating for just and fair treatment to all. We're talking about the heaviness of the world, and how we can right the trajectory through inclusion, kindness & community. You in?
Learn:

Understanding how ADL is fighting hate through investigative research, education programs, & legislative victories
Pyramid of Hate: how hate can quickly escalate from mere words to acts of violence
ADL’s formula for dismantling hate
New book: "It Could Happen Here: Why America Is Tipping From Hate To The Unthinkable And How We Can Stop It"

Today’s Guest

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the Anti-Defamation League

“Even as we push back on hate, which we must do, we’ve got to pull together and find hope. That is the only way we come through this.”

— Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the Anti-Defamation League

Episode Transcript

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Episode Overview

Jonathan’s story and journey to where he is today (5:00)
Overview of ADL (14:00)
Jonathan’s book: "It Could Happen Here: Why America Is Tipping From Hate To The Unthinkable And How We Can Stop It" (23:00)
The Pyramid of Hate (31:00)
Action (41:00)
Whole of society strategy (43:00)
Jonathan’s One Good Thing: Fight hate, but find hope. (47:00)

POWERFUL QUOTES

“We can’t be free unless everyone is free. Their struggle is our struggle.” -Jonathan Greenblatt

“My grandfather was a Holocaust survivor from Germany. He came here with no money, no language, and no family…His ability to endure and rise above that, was always an inspiration to me.” -Jonathan Greenblatt

“Democracy is not a spectator sport.” -Jonathan Greenblatt

“There is no next season for democracy.” -Jonathan Greenblatt

“Extremism is a landmine that will explode, regardless of who steps on it. In the end it destroys everyone.” -Jonathan Greenblatt

“Even as we push back on hate, which we must do, we've got to pull together and find hope. That is the only way we come through this.” -Jonathan Greenblatt

“Find someone who has a different lived experience than you. Live in the humanity and open your eyes to the warmth of the people and the peace. Because that changes your viewpoint. It opens your heart.” -Becky Endicott

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