Dear ECTRIMS Planning Committee,

I am writing to express my deep disappointment and concern regarding the scheduling of the 2025 ECTRIMS conference, which falls during Rosh Hashanah, one of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar.

In today's climate marked by a deeply troubling and well documented rise in antisemitism across the globe it is especially disheartening to see a premier international scientific meeting exclude, whether intentionally or inadvertently, an entire faith community from full participation. By scheduling the conference during this sacred time, the committee has effectively forced observant Jewish professionals to choose between honoring their religious obligations and participating in one of the most important events in our field.

This decision is not merely inconvenient; it is exclusionary and, frankly, discriminatory. It sends a painful message to both practicing and non-practicing Jewish attendees: that their presence, contributions, and identity are not fully valued in this professional space.

As leaders in the scientific and medical community, we have a responsibility to uphold principles of diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect. Scheduling an event during a major religious holiday when it could be reasonably avoided undermines these values.

I urge the ECTRIMS committee to take this concern seriously and commit to more inclusive planning practices moving forward. At a time when many in the Jewish community are feeling increasingly marginalized, it is imperative that professional organizations like ECTRIMS lead by example and ensure that all members can participate fully and without compromise.

Dr Sharon Stoll