Local students take a stand against antisemitism in Rancho Mirage

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ) - Middle and high school students in the Coachella Valley gathered Sunday at the Tolerance Education Center to discuss the rise of antisemitism and explore ways to combat hate in their communities.

The event provided students with a safe space to learn, share personal experiences, and engage in conversations about tolerance and inclusion.

Some participants shared family histories connected to the Holocaust, highlighting the personal importance of addressing antisemitism.

Students stressed the role young people can play in speaking out and educating their peers, noting that it is crucial to address these issues before hatred escalates.

The event was organized in part by local youth who started a school club focused on promoting tolerance and creating opportunities for open discussion. Organizers said providing students with a platform to talk about difficult topics helps empower them to make a positive impact in the community.

The discussion was led by Ariella Loewenstein, Deputy Regional Director for the Anti-Defamation League in Los Angeles, who explained that confronting antisemitism is essential because it often fuels other forms of hate. She emphasized that when antisemitism is unchecked, all hate is affected, and that education and open dialogue are critical to building safer, more inclusive communities.

Organizers said events like this aim to equip students with the knowledge and tools to recognize hate, speak out against it.