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Dr. Alissa C Zuchman, Director Alissa@bjechicago.org, 847-291-7788

Wednesday, November 16, 2022 – 23 Heshvan 5783 ANTISEMITISM

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Lately, it seems like a daily occurrence that hate speech against the Jewish community has become commonplace. I often think about what can be done to combat antisemitism. I believe the best way to communicate change is to modify how people speak and write about the Jewish people and how we respond as a community. Eric Ward, a racial justice activist, teaches it is integral to the architecture of American racism to combat antisemitism. Educating the broader community about fighting antisemitism is essential to break the wave of verbal and physical violence that has become so prevalent. While there is no single fix to this alarming circumstance, the ADL offers a comprehensive, six-part framework for taking meaningful action to fight antisemitism:

Condemn Antisemitism
Oppose Hate and Extremism Driven by Antisemitism
Make Communities Safe from Antisemitism
Block Antisemitism Online
Act Against Global Antisemitism
Teach about Antisemitism

We must stand firm and shine a light on all forms of antisemitism, empowering individuals and communities with the tools to address this age-old hate. By working with all, we strengthen each other against all racism and antisemitism. The safety of the Jewish community can never be taken for granted. The Talmudic teaching of כל ׳שראל ערב׳מ זה לזה All of Israel is Responsible for One Another: holds true today and every day.

This month, on the fourth anniversary of the Tree of Life massacre, let us stand firm in our commitment and pride in our Jewish identities and be vigilant to denounce all forms of racism. If not now, when!

Alissa C. Zuchman, PhD
Director