University of St. Thomas School of Law Professor David Grenardo co-authored a new report that examines antisemitism in professional sports around the globe. The publication, “Leveraging education in sport to challenge antisemitism: recommendations for policy and practice,” highlights the forms antisemitism may take and offers actionable recommendations on how to acknowledge and address antisemitism through education and sports.
“Given the rise and prevalence of antisemitism in society and sports, as well as the power of sports to unite people, the report provides guidance at all levels of sports (e.g., teams, leagues, federations, and governing bodies) on identifying, addressing, and preventing antisemitism in sport,” Grenardo said.
He co-authored the report with Thomas Fletcher, Leeds Beckett University (United Kingdom); Emma Poulton, independent researcher (United Kingdom); and Elizabeth Berger and Karolina Placzynta, consultants in UNESCO’s Section of Global Citizenship and Peace Education.
Grenardo was assisted in his research for the report by St. Thomas Law students Julia Abreu Siufi ’25 J.D., Grace Castleberg ’26 J.D., Kyle Devich ’27 J.D., Gabrielle Hill-Sanow ’27 J.D., Claire Leach ’27 J.D., Nazeefa Nezami ’26 J.D., Eric Osborn ’25 J.D., Madi Ott ’26 J.D., Gabriel Silveira Chein ’26 J.D., Alec Singer ’26 J.D., Zeena Sweidan ’26 J.D. and Merryn Wier ’25 J.D.
Following the report’s release, Grenardo was asked to represent UNESCO at the Lancaster House Conference 2026: Strengthening the Jewish Way of Life and Combatting Antisemitism, held October 27 in London.
The conference focused on safeguarding Jewish life in Britain, addressing antisemitism in schools and workplaces, and strengthening the commitment of government leaders to counter prejudice. It was hosted by The Office of Her Majesty’s Government’s Independent Adviser Lord John Mann and attended by several government ministers, members of Parliament and other representatives from several sectors, including healthcare, education, the arts and sports.
“The entire conference was incredibly informative, energizing and inspiring,” said Grenardo, who was part of two panels, one which discussed belonging and inclusion across British football.
Grenardo has previously partnered with UNESCO on initiatives to bring attention to and address racism in sports. In 2024, he spoke at the UNESCO Global Forum against Racism and Discrimination held in Barcelona, Spain.
