Isaac "Yitzy" Schleifer

Today, we celebrate Bill McCarthy Jr. for his decades of visionary leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to one of Baltimore’s most vital institutions—Catholic Charities. His commitment to serving our community, uplifting those in need, and building pathways to opportunity has left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Thank you, Bill, for your tireless work, your inspiring vision, and your steadfast belief in the power of community. Your legacy will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and service for generations to come.

Here’s to honoring your journey and the many lives you’ve touched. ... See MoreSee Less

Today marks the start of Jewish American Heritage Month in Baltimore City!

We’re proud to have introduced a resolution officially recognizing this month, which passed unanimously in the City Council. This resolution celebrates the rich history and invaluable contributions of Jewish Americans to Baltimore and our nation. ... See MoreSee Less

At tonight’s Council meeting, we recognized Jewish American Heritage Month and honored the contributions of Jewish Americans to our country.

I was proud to recognize Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen and our city’s first Jewish Sheriff, Sam Cogan. Across Maryland, we honor leaders like Senator Shelley Hettleman and Delegate Jared Solomon, who co-chair the state’s first Legislative Jewish Caucus following the atrocities on October 7th.

With antisemitism on the rise — including here in Baltimore — it’s more important than ever to stand together. Black and Jewish communities once faced housing discrimination and exclusion here in Baltimore, but by marching and fighting together, they helped pave the way for a better, more just future.

We honor that shared history — and the work still ahead. ... See MoreSee Less

Today is Yom HaShoah—Holocaust Memorial Day.

We remember the six million Jews murdered simply for being Jewish.
Among them were members of my family—some who survived, many who did not.

We remember the Jewish babies who never had the chance to grow up.

The parents who watched their children torn from their arms.

The Jewish communities that were wiped off the map.

Yom HaShoah is not just a day of remembrance—it is a warning.

People often ask: What would I have done during the Holocaust?

The truth is, you’re answering that question right now.

On October 7th, Jews were hunted, tortured, raped, and murdered—just for being Jewish.
Families were burned alive. Children were executed.

Americans among them were slaughtered or kidnapped by Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization.

How did you respond?

Did you speak out without hesitation?

Did you condemn the evil plainly and without condition?

Or did you equivocate—deflect—stay silent?

If you can’t stand against antisemitism today, you likely wouldn’t have then.

But it’s not too late.

The Jewish people are strong, inclusive, and forgiving. We believe in growth. In courage. In truth.

So ask yourself:

If it were your family, your people, your home under attack—
What would you want your friends, neighbors, and colleagues to do?

Silence is not neutral.
Remembrance without action is empty.

We will never forget. Not today. Not ever. ... See MoreSee Less