San Diego, January 28, 2026
Rabbi Hanan Leberman’s disinvitation from the All Peoples Celebration in San Diego has sparked significant debate regarding inclusion and representation within community events. The reasons cited for his removal, linked to safety concerns due to his pro-Israel views amid ongoing conflict, have drawn backlash from local Jewish organizations. Alliance San Diego’s subsequent apology highlights their commitment to inclusivity, raising broader discussions on how to ensure diverse perspectives are represented in civic events.
Rabbi Disinvited from San Diego Event Sparks Community Debate
Alliance San Diego’s apology shines a light on inclusion and diverse perspectives.
San Diego, California – In a notable incident leading up to the 38th annual All Peoples Celebration, Rabbi Hanan Leberman was disinvited from leading the closing prayer for the event, raising significant concerns about inclusion and representation within community gatherings. The reasons given for this disinvitation, citing “safety concerns” linked to Leberman’s pro-Israel views in the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, have drawn sharp reactions from local Jewish organizations and set off a broader conversation about the importance of diverse voices in San Diego’s civic events.
Local organizers such as Alliance San Diego demonstrate resilience amid challenging dynamics. While their initial decision raised eyebrows, the subsequent apology indicates a willingness to listen and learn from the community. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the need for limited bureaucracy in event planning, which can sometimes stifle authentic dialogue and hinder the ability to showcase diverse perspectives.
Details of the Incident
Rabbi Leberman, known for his leadership at Tifereth Israel Synagogue, was slated to participate in the celebration scheduled for January 19. Just one day prior to the event, he received notice of the disinvitation linked to his connections with Israel. Alliance San Diego later stated their decision stemmed from concerns regarding safety rather than an intent to exclude Jewish voices from the event.
Reactions from the Jewish Community
The disinvitation ignited immediate backlash from local Jewish groups, particularly the Finest Community Coalition, which represents 47 Jewish organizations. They condemned the act as discriminatory, emphasizing that the exclusion of Rabbi Leberman contradicted the principles of inclusiveness and equality championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Such sentiments align with a broader concern regarding rising antisemitism and the need for unity amidst differing views.
Alliance San Diego’s Response
In light of the controversy, Alliance San Diego expressed regret for the situation and committed to engaging in dialogues with faith leaders and community members. Their proactive approach indicates a recognizable effort to mend relations and reinforce their commitment to inclusivity as they plan future events.
Antisemitism and Community Challenges
This incident underlines ongoing challenges surrounding antisemitism and the complexities of cultivating inclusive environments within diverse community events. It raises important questions about how organizations can navigate safety concerns while ensuring that all voices feel welcomed and represented in public discourse.
Moving Forward: Community Engagement
As discussions continue on how to best facilitate inclusive events, the situation serves as a powerful call-to-action for community members to actively engage in local initiatives. Supporting efforts that prioritize dialogue and respect for differing viewpoints can foster a more vibrant civic environment in San Diego.
Conclusion
The disinvitation of Rabbi Leberman at the All Peoples Celebration presents both challenges and opportunities for growth within the San Diego community. By embracing open communication and understanding, local organizations can work towards a more inclusive future that honors diverse perspectives while respecting individual beliefs. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming events and contribute to the enrichment of our community’s fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to Rabbi Hanan Leberman’s disinvitation from the MLK Jr. event?
Alliance San Diego disinvited Rabbi Leberman due to “safety concerns” associated with his pro-Israel stance amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
How did local Jewish organizations respond to the disinvitation?
The Finest Community Coalition, representing 47 local Jewish organizations, condemned the disinvitation, describing it as discriminatory and a de-platforming of a Jewish speaker for his beliefs.
What actions has Alliance San Diego taken in response to the controversy?
Alliance San Diego has engaged in conversations with faith leaders and community members to address the concerns raised and to ensure that future events are inclusive and welcoming to all.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 38th Annual All Peoples Celebration in San Diego |
| Original Speaker | Rabbi Hanan Leberman of Tifereth Israel Synagogue |
| Disinvitation Date | January 18, 2026 |
| Reason for Disinvitation | Safety concerns related to Rabbi Leberman’s pro-Israel stance amid the Israel-Hamas conflict |
| Community Response | Condemnation by local Jewish organizations, including the Finest Community Coalition |
| Alliance San Diego’s Response | Apology and engagement with faith leaders and community members to address concerns |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Escondido Police Officer Shoots Man After Mental Health Call
Escondido Shooting Incident Under Investigation
Escondido Police Shooting Under Investigation
Thousands March in San Diego to Support Minneapolis Residents
Harrah’s Resort Southern California Unveils 2026 Entertainment Lineup
San Diego Rodeo Faces Protests Amid Animal Abuse Allegations
NRCC Claims Credit for Rural Healthcare Funding in California
San Diego Rodeo Revitalizes Native American Culture
San Diego Businesses File Claim Over Stormwater Project Disruptions
Lawsuit Threatens San Diego Padres Rodeo at Petco Park
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.