Yesterday evening, Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) hosted our first-ever virtual State of the Union, bringing in more than 2,000 viewers and raising $3.3 million, which will enable us to continue the important work of fighting antisemitism and hate through critical advocacy work and education programs.

The event featured remarks from FSWC President and CEO Michael Levitt, Chair Fred Waks and event co-chairs Caroline Pinto and Milton Davis, as well as special video messages from Toronto Mayor John Tory, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Embassy of Israel's Chargé d’Affaires Ohad Kaynar. We also introduced next year's Spirit of Hope co-chairs Ron and Sharon Baruch and Derek and Daryl Erdman, who expressed their passion and support for FSWC's work in education.

The long-awaited panel discussion featuring Ambassador John Bolton and General David H. Petraeus followed, with moderator Heather Reisman delving into insightful questions focused on current global issues and the incoming U.S. administration. Bolton and Petraeus provided in-depth analysis and insights into numerous issues, including the future of the Iran nuclear deal, the recently signed Abraham Accords, the U.S.-China relationship and the post-election situation in the U.S.

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We extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our supporters, event committee members (Michael Bregman, Paul Bronfman, David Cynamon, Jill Reitman, Fred Waks and Eddie Weisz) and 2020 co-chairs Caroline Pinto and Milton Davis whose dedicated involvement and support helped make this year's virtual State of the Union such a tremendous success.

Thank you to everyone who tuned in last night, and we look forward to welcoming you at our next big event, Spirit of Hope 2021!

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Learn more about the important work of FSWC by watching the video below

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