Jeremiah Smith
Advocate for Hostages

A) What qualities make the nominee deserving of the Z3 Bridge Builder Award?

Jeremiah Smith has been a fearless advocate in raising awareness about the hostages held in Gaza. His own family member, lovingly referred to as the cousin, uncle brother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin z”l, was held hostage for 330 days before being murdered by Hamas. Six days a week, 12 hours a day, Jeremiah Smith drives a truck sided with digital billboards throughout Chicagoland to raise awareness about the hostages held by Hamas since October 7. During this time, he has encountered extreme hate but also has been met with support and encouragement. He has conversation after conversation about the hostages. He has been on the ground, fighting this hate and extremism and spreading awareness about the hostages. He has also participated in efforts to oust “the squad” in the Congressional campaigns in St. Louis, Minneapolis, and New York.

B) In what ways has the nominee demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to their work in bridging divides?

Jeremiah does the hard work of one on one conversations with people that range from supportive to hostile. He shared with me that even though he has endured horrible verbal abuse and threats against him, that still does not deter him. One on one conversations, face to face, with strangers is uncomfortable and dangerous at times, but it is so impactful to breach the echo chambers and give people the opportunity to ask questions and learn. Jeremiah would drive his truck around the hostile college encampments because he knew how especially important it was to share the story of the hostages with that community.

C) How has the nominee's work impacted the Jewish community and beyond?

Jeremiah has touched his community, the Jewish community, with his efforts to counter hate and bring more humanity into the world. His bravery and courage to give a voice to those that cannot advocate for themselves, during these volatile times, provides some hope and unity.