MADISON, WI – Five Wisconsin youth sports clubs have been suspended by their governing body for labeling Jewish community organizations as “extremist” in a recent statement. The decision, announced by the Wisconsin Youth Soccer Association (WYSA) on Tuesday, follows a wave of condemnation from Jewish community leaders and civil rights groups.

The statement, released by the clubs and circulated on social media, alleged that the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) were “extremist organizations” and “promoting hate speech.” The clubs claimed these groups were “trying to silence” their concerns about a proposed change to the WYSA’s code of conduct regarding transgender athletes.

“The accusations made against these organizations are unfounded and deeply troubling,” said Rabbi Michael Zimmerman, Executive Director of the JCRC. “They are attempting to use the language of antisemitism and extremism to silence legitimate concerns about inclusivity and fairness in sports.”

The ADL echoed these sentiments, calling the clubs’ statement “a dangerous and false accusation” that “plays on antisemitic tropes.”

The WYSA, after reviewing the statement and receiving numerous complaints, swiftly condemned the clubs’ actions. “We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all athletes,” stated WYSA president, Sarah Miller. “The statement made by these clubs directly contradicts those values, and we have taken immediate action to address this unacceptable behavior.”

The five clubs, whose names have not been publicly released, will be suspended for the remainder of the current soccer season and will be subject to a thorough review of their policies and practices. The WYSA is also working with Jewish community organizations to provide antisemitism education to club members, coaches, and parents.

This incident highlights a growing concern regarding the increasing use of antisemitic rhetoric and the weaponization of the term “extremist” to target Jewish organizations. While the clubs claimed their concerns centered on transgender athlete participation, the use of inflammatory language against Jewish institutions raises serious questions about their underlying motivations.

The suspension of these clubs serves as a strong message against intolerance and hate speech. It remains to be seen if the clubs will genuinely address their actions and promote inclusivity in their future activities. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of combating antisemitism and ensuring that all communities feel safe and respected.