In 2022, Beyond Barriers partnered with the Simon Wiesenthal Center in an effort to combat anti-Semitism and expand Extremism Prevention efforts. As one of the leading global organizations in the fight against hate, extremism, and anti-Semitism, the Simon Wiesenthal Center was one of the first non-profit organizations to take on the issue of tracking, monitoring, and understanding hate groups as they began to use online platforms. All of us at Beyond Barriers are truly honored and thankful to work alongside the Simon Wiesenthal Center. Thank you to Rick Eaton, Alison Pure-Slovin, Rabbi Cooper, and everyone else in the organization who inspire greatness in your actions and deeds! ❤️
Here is a brief look at the past and continuing efforts of the Simon Wiesenthal Center Midwest Region and Beyond Barriers:
Community Events
In collaboration with Cook County Racial Equity Week, the Simon Wiesenthal Center presented a powerful one-on-one moderated discussion with Beyond Barriers Founder Jeff Schoep, and Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Midwest Region Director Alison Pure-Slovin. A recording of this event can be viewed no the Cook County’s Facebook Page.
Fighting Online Extremism
Domestic Extremism Trainings & Workshops
TERRORGRAM: Understanding Online Chatter
The trainings/workshops explore the main websites/platforms, terminology, and chatter occurring on these sites and how to properly monitor them to prevent violent attacks in the community.
Presented by Beyond Barriers’ Directors, Jeff Schoep and Acacia Dietz, and Simon Wiesenthal Center Director of Research, Rick Eaton.
Education
Thank you to the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools (IARSS) for welcoming the Simon Wiesenthal Center (Director of Research and to speak with educators from all over the state of Illinois about Digital Media Literacy & Extremism.
Special thanks to The NAACP school in Springfield, Illinois for welcoming Jeff Schoep and Acacia Dietz to speak with the students, what an honor to meet the young, intelligent and engaging future leaders at the school!
Pictured above: Students at the NAACP (Springfield Branch) school, Alison Pure-Slovin, Acacia Dietz, and Jeff Schoep.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center Midwest Region and Beyond Barriers will continue providing Domestic Extremism Training/Workshops and please contact Beyond Barriers if you are interested in attending or learning more.
