Fed Fest 2024 at the Audubon Tea Room on Wednesday, December 11, was truly a special celebration of community, resilience, and service. It was an evening dedicated to honoring incredible individuals who go above and beyond to strengthen our city and bring people together, showcasing everything that makes our community so remarkable. The joy, camaraderie, and shared purpose in the room were a testament to the values that bind us together.
Unfortunately, the actions of a small group of agitators who gathered outside disrupted the celebration in an attempt to intimidate our guests. Their hateful rhetoric and behavior were a direct attempt to instill fear and target our community in an unmistakable act of antisemitism.
Let us be clear: if attendees of any other community event were forced to exit under police escort due to safety concerns it would be national news. What transpired that night is a stark reminder that antisemitism remains a pervasive threat—one that must be named and confronted wherever it appears.
We are grateful to our Community Security Director, Jimmy Stewart, and the New Orleans Police Department for their swift and professional response, ensuring the safety of everyone in attendance. We also want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our guests and the entire staff of the Audubon Tea Room, who exhibited resilience and courage.
Hate has no place in New Orleans—or anywhere else. The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans remains steadfast in its mission to build bridges, foster understanding, and stand against antisemitism and all forms of hatred. Together, we can ensure that our city continues to be a place of inclusion, respect, and shared humanity.