Russell Simmons to Address Jewish Leaders

Russell Simmons is scheduled to address Jewish leaders on Monday, Jan. 22 at a meeting of the World Jewish Congress American Section in New York City. Simmons, who serves as chairman of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding, will speak about the need for Jews, African-Americans, Muslims and people of all cultures to denounce hatred and promote mutual respect. Over the past few weeks, public service announcements featuring Simmons and Def Jam President Jay-Z that encourage youth to speak out against anti-Semitism have been airing throughout the country. Rabbi Marc Schneier, who serves alongside Simmons as president of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding and is also secretary for the WJC, produced the PSAs. Also scheduled to speak at the meeting are U.S. Representative Charles Rangel and Ambassador Arye Mekel, consul general of Israel.