From Left: Jordan Berman, Lord John Mann, Josh Perelman, Jed Margolis (Photo by Shoot From Within)
As global attention recently turned to soccer and Philadelphia’s role as a World Cup host city, the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame joined the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History for a meaningful program featuring Lord John Mann at The First Salute exhibition. Lord Mann is formerly a member of British Parliament and a leader in the fight against Antisemitism. The International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame has awarded Lord Mann its inaugural Tikkun Olam Award in honor of his work. The gathering, in collaboration with the British American Business Chapter of Philadelphia, Maccabi USA, Stars of the Tribe, was a unique program that made a great impact, which brought together conversations about sport, Jewish history, the fight against antisemitism, and the enduring importance of allies.
The First Salute Exhibition tells the story of the heroism by a community of Jews who settled in the Dutch colony of St. Eustatius and helped supply the American Revolution during the late 1700s. In doing so, they had to overcome Antisemitism at a crucial time.
Lord Mann visited at a moment when soccer was at the center of public conversation. He shared insights into the development and history of the sport across Europe, while also discussing the significant contributions Jewish individuals and communities have made to soccer.
“Lord Mann’s work is profoundly important, especially when considered alongside the unique story of St. Eustatius. It is unfortunate and deeply concerning that the antisemitism, racism, and injustice faced by that community centuries ago remain challenges that persist all these years later” said President Jed Margolis.
Equally important, Lord Mann reflected on his own work to challenge racism and discrimination in sports. His remarks reinforced how athletics can serve as both a reflection of society’s tensions and a powerful platform for addressing prejudice, building greater understanding, and promoting inclusion.
His perspective made the program especially resonant for a city embracing its place on the international soccer stage. It also underscored a broader message: sports history is inseparable from the stories of the people, communities, and values that have helped shape it.
That message is particularly urgent as antisemitism continues to rise in the United States and around the world. By helping visitors engage with Jewish history through stories of courage, pride, struggle, and joy, The Weitzman seeks to inspire future generations to understand the depth and importance of Jewish life and Jewish contributions to the American story.
