The biggest names in sports have come together to launch a new campaign against antisemitism. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and his foundation, in collaboration with various sports leagues including Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer, the National Basketball Association, the Women’s National Basketball Association, the National Football League, the National Women’s Soccer League and NASCAR, unveiled an ad titled “Time Out Against Hate.” The campaign aims to combat the rising incidents of antisemitism in the United States.
According to a report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), there have been over 10,000 antisemitic incidents in the US since October 7th, 2023. The Foundation to Combat Antisemitism founded by Kraft states that approximately 10% of adult males in America hold blatant prejudice against Jewish people and are vocal about it.
Kraft expressed his concern about the current situation in America during an interview with CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” stating that he has never seen anything like it before and is worried about what will happen after the election.
The star-studded ad features well-known figures such as Billie Jean King, Shaquille O’Neal, Jim Harbaugh, Doc Rivers, Joe Torre, Ryan Blaney and Candace Parker. It will premiere during Amazon’s Thursday Night Football programming featuring NFL teams San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks. The campaign will also be showcased on digital platforms and billboards across the country.
Kraft emphasized that this initiative is a call for everyone to join forces against hate and create a world where empathy, understanding,and respect prevail. He previously organized a meeting of sports commissioners from various leagues last year to address hateful dialogue taking place within their respective industries. Since then,the campaign has expanded its focus beyond antisemitism to include all forms of hate based on gender,race,and religion.
Kraft established his Foundation to Combat Antisemitism in 2019 with a mission to combat rising hatred towards Jews in America. The organization has been working closely with companies like Bank of America and Adidas as well as colleges to raise awareness about incidents of antisemitism on campuses.
In April,Kraft announced that he would no longer financially support Columbia University due to their handling of anti-Israel protesters on campus.In June,Kraft made a $1 million donationto Yeshiva University,to cover tuition for Jewish students who wish transfer.