NEA considers delegate recommendation on relationship with Anti-Defamation League

Among the key decisions made at the National Education Association's (NEA) 2025 Representative Assembly, delegates voted to recommend that the NEA Executive Committee refrain from using, endorsing, or publicizing materials from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) or participating in ADL programs. This decision triggers an automatic referral to the NEA Executive Committee for further study and consideration.

Although there is no existing partnership between NEA and ADL, the recommendation will be reviewed by the NEA Executive Committee following organizational policies.

NEA President Becky Pringle stated: “As educators, we are committed to ensuring students of every race, religion or national origin have safe and welcoming spaces to learn and grow. The National Education Association and its members are unequivocally committed to the cause of educating, organizing against, and combating all forms of hate and discrimination, including antisemitism and anti-Palestinian bias. This is a fundamental principle we will never abandon."

Pringle emphasized that antisemitism remains a pressing issue both nationally and globally. She noted NEA's dedication to addressing this problem through educational initiatives within classrooms and communities. At the 2025 Representative Assembly, efforts included hosting a panel on combating antisemitism, honoring Holocaust survivor Maud Dahme at their Human and Civil Rights Awards ceremony, and voting to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month.

While acknowledging no current collaboration with ADL exists, Pringle confirmed that she would convene the NEA Executive Committee for deliberation on this matter. Outreach has already begun with leaders in Jewish and civil rights communities.

“NEA believes in free speech, academic freedom, and having hard yet honest conversations that can nurture growth and understanding," Pringle added. "There is a critical need for us as educators to model respectful dialogue... We will not shy away from difficult or complex issues... nor will we ever tolerate antisemitism..."

The National Education Association represents over three million professionals across various educational roles in America.