“Jews use financial influence to control society… Jews have dual loyalty… Jews are conspiring to take over the world… Jews are hypnotizing humanity…”
These anti-Semitic tropes have been at the core of some of humanity’s worst atrocities – Crusades, Inquisition, pogroms, Holocaust.
And now, Cong. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota is bringing this rhetoric to the hallowed halls of the U.S. Capitol. “It’s all about the Benjamins baby,” she tweeted, referring to the influence of Jewish money (“Benjamins” is slang for $100 bills), then singled out pro-Israel AIPAC for the corrupt buying of politicians.
Omar’s contention is unacceptable on many levels. Not only does it evoke harsh anti-Semitic myths of Jews controlling the world via money, it is factually wrong: AIPAC pays no money to politicians, nor contributes to their candidacy.
As for Omar’s implication that a pro-Israel policy is bad for America, perhaps she is unaware that Israel is America's most trusted and reliable ally in the Middle East, a beacon of democracy standing on the frontline of the war against terror.
When Omar faced backlash and semi-apologized for these dangerous words, many in the Jewish community excused her ignorance, saying she was “previously unaware” and is now “educated.”
Yet Minnesota State Senator Ron Latz (D) is having none of this.
“Rep. Omar has shown a pattern over the years of using anti-Israel and anti-Semitic tropes or themes in her communications,” Latz, told Aish.com.
Latz would know. Last year, he led a group of local leaders in Minneapolis who invited Omar to discuss issues of sensitivity to the Jewish community. In a two-hour meeting at Latz's home, Jewish leaders respectfully explained to Omar that criticism of Israel must not include anti-Semitic stereotypes. Most attendees came away troubled by Omar’s response, Latz says, yet hopeful her attitude would change.
As it happens, things are worse. Prior to the election, Omar was asked at a synagogue to specify her stance on the BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) movement that uses double standards to delegitimize and demonize Israel as the world’s pariah. BDS has been called "terrorists in suits" for its aim of destroying the Jewish state.
Omar responded that BDS was “not helpful in getting that two-state solution” – as if to denounce the movement that she now openly supports. This is pure deception.
“Evil Israel”
Recently, when asked how the U.S. should work productively toward peace between Israelis and Palestinians, Omar first criticized Israel’s very identity “as a Jewish state,” then said: “If we see that in any other society we would criticize it. We would call it out. We do that to Iran.”
Omar falsely suggests that the idea of a state religion is somehow fanatical, racist, and anti-democratic – effectively denying the Jewish state's right to exist. Does Omar not know that Western democracies like England, Spain, Denmark, Greece, Costa Rica and 35 other countries are officially Christian nations? Does Omar not know that 30 countries identify Islam as their official religion?
Yet it is the world’s sole Jewish state – where "freedom of religion for all" is enshrined into Israeli law – that aggravates Omar. This double standard is called anti-Semitism.
As for the other part of Omar’s tweet – comparing Israel to Iran: Does she not know that Iran is a radical theocracy, the world’s largest state-sponsor of terror, that routinely vilifies the United States, and that operates terror bases in Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq and Lebanon – including sponsorship of Hezbollah that murdered 241 U.S. Marines?
Is this what Omar compares to Israel, our ally that votes in concert with the U.S. at the United Nations – more than any country in the world including major U.S. allies like Great Britain, France and Canada?
Does Rep. Omar truly require more re-education – or is something more sinister operating here?
The Apartheid Canard
Israel has hypnotized the world, may Allah awaken the people and help them see the evil doings of Israel. #Gaza #Palestine #Israel
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) November 16, 2012
Omar’s most anti-Semitic Tweet came as Hamas terrorists were bombarding Israel's civilian population with 150 rockets. It was then that she labeled Israel an “apartheid regime,” saying that “Israel has hypnotized the world, may Allah awaken the people and see the evil doings of Israel.”
"Evil apartheid"? Doesn't Omar know that Israel upholds Muslims' freedom of the press, freedom of speech, freedom of association and freedom of religion – granting more rights to Muslim citizens than any Arab nation, and more religious freedom than the "progressive" nations of Switzerland, Holland, Belgium and France?
Doesn’t Omar know that the first country in the Middle East to grant Arab women the right to vote was not Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, or one of other 23 Arab states – but Israel?
Doesn’t Omar know that in Israel today, 10 percent of Israeli parliament (Knesset) members are Arab; that 30 percent of students at Hebrew University in Jerusalem are Arab; that one-third of the staff at Israel's Hadassah Hospital – arguably the leading hospital in the Middle East – are Arab?
Yet on all this, Omar is silent. Nor does she utter a word about gender apartheid in Saudi Arabia, where women have been arrested for driving a car, and make up just 5 percent of the workforce – the lowest proportion in the world. Does Omar not know about the Saudi Arabian smartphone APP allowing men to monitor their wives and daughters – who have no independent right to leave the country?
Why does Omar not criticize the horrific discrimination against Jews throughout the Middle East, where 74% of Muslims believe anti-Semitic stereotypes (ADL survey), and where entry to Israelis is almost universally denied?
Why does Omar not criticize the Palestinian Authority’s apartheid policies which regard selling land to Jews as punishable by death, and its longstanding vow that should Palestine ever become a state, not a single Jew will be permitted to live there?
Anti-Semitism on the Rise
With the rise of anti-Semitism around the world – ADL reports a rise of 56% in anti-Semitic incidents from 2016 to 2017 – we cannot afford to give a free pass to those spreading anti-Semitic canards.
When such statements become part of mainstream discourse, it emboldens anti-Semites. Though Jews are 2 percent of the US population, FBI data consistently shows that anti-Semitism accounts for the majority of U.S. hate crimes due to religious bias. Whether it is swastikas painted in Jewish cemeteries, or the yeshiva set on fire by neo-Nazis this month in upstate New York, or the horrific murder of 11 Jews at a Pittsburgh synagogue – we must be vigilant.
We need to call out the hypocrisy of a former U.S. President taking the stage with radical anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan (“Jews are termites”). And to call out the Women’s March for tolerating co-founder Tamika Mallory’s praise of Farrakhan as GOAT – the Greatest of All Time.
If we don’t call this out, we are enabling anti-Semitism to normalize in “accepted conversation.” The current British experience gives an inkling into this dangerous process: When “critics of Israel” in the UK Labour Party began employing anti-Semitic tropes, that trend went unchecked long enough that today, Jeremy Corbyn – UK Labour’s BDS-supporting leader – may soon become prime minister.
With Ilhan Omar now wielding international influence on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, it is time to stop excusing as "ignorance" her anti-Semitic tropes and dog whistles. To stop pretending that BDS is anything but a bludgeon to delegitimatize and destroy the Jewish state. To ensure that these vile views do not gain ascendance in the US Congress.
As State Senator Latz tells Aish.com, it is time for all of us to stop the kid-glove treatment of making excuses for Omar. "She should have learned by now. It is time to hold her accountable for what she says."
(83) Laura Vermeire, March 9, 2019 5:20 PM
Great Article. Now Dems are turning Omar into the victim due to sad childhood
Thank you. Great article. Her comments are pure anti-Semitism. Please keep on this story as Nancy Pelosi is trying to say Omar didn't know what she was saying and others that Omar had a terrible childhood. That's no excuse for perpetrating anti-Semistism.
(82) Thom McCann, March 4, 2019 3:45 AM
Proof Obama made anti-Semitism socially acceptable
•
•
PROOF THAT OBAMA MADE LOUIS FARRAKHAN'S AND NATION OF ISLAM ANTI-SEMITISM AND ANTI-ZIONISM SOCIALLY ACCEPTABLE
AS WELL THE LIBERAL MEDIA—LIKE THE NY TIMES!
Why didn't The NY Times print the newly found photo from 2005 (covered up for 13 years by the black photographer Askia Muhammed and finally released in 2018), taken at the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC.
Obama also had anti-Semitic members of the Nation of Islam working at his Senate staff headquarters and worked in his office in 2005 in Chicago in his run for the Senate.
We can only imagine what the NY Times would do if it was Trump who just posed with and had a Ku Klux Klansmen on his staff like what Obama did with Louis Farrakhan's Nation of Islam members.
See the YouTube Fox News video of Tucker Carlson interview with the photographer at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nafhanRZ4lc
Obama, in an interview published about the Paris murders by Vox, the explanatory news site;
“It is entirely legitimate for the American people to be deeply concerned when you've got a bunch of violent, vicious zealots [never calling them "Muslim terrorists"] who behead people or randomly shoot a bunch of folks in a deli in Paris,” about a past hostage crisis at a Paris market.
One wonders what he would have said or done if the “bunch of folks” were Muslims —like himself—instead of Jews.
Is Obama's latent anti-Semitism why he refused to go or send John Kerry to Paris to protest their death while even Palestinian Mohammed Abbas, an anti-Semite, went?
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), said,
“They were not shooting people at random, they were shooting Jews because of their Jewish faith.”
Shame on him.
And Ilan Omar's anti-Semitic supporters and followers.
•
(81) Thom McCann, February 28, 2019 12:58 AM
Why boycott only Israel?
•
If Americans–or even Palestinians want to understand what boycott really is–in a few minutes–watch rap artist "Ari Lesser Boycott" on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se3PaCX7sjI
Take out the "D" in "BDS" and that's what you really get.
•
(80) Anonymous, February 25, 2019 9:15 AM
Private Call with Jewish groups
https://www.timesofisrael.com/ilhan-omar-apologizes-to-jewish-groups-for-hurt-caused-by-aipac-tweet/
Omar met with some Jewish groups, in a closed private call to apologize again and state that she has no space or energy for supporters minimizing the hurt.
Not sure if this was just politics, but I do think all Jewish groups should have been included, regardless. In any event, she said she wants to heal the relationship. Time will tell.
Anonymous, February 26, 2019 7:09 PM
Can't heal a relationship that never existed.
(79) Anonymous, February 23, 2019 9:50 PM
Dual-loyalty?
If Jews have dual loyalty, at least its LOYALTY. Islamist's have only one loyalty and that's NOT to the United States of America. It is to ISLAM and ISLAM ONLY! It's impossible for someone who practices Islam as it is written in the Koran to be loyal to the USA since our Constitution is diametrically opposed to the tenets of Islam. Perhaps if there is a movement to delete the later supposed writings of Mohamed (if he did indeed write any of it) that call for lying, slaughter, intolerance to the point of genocide of other religions and points of view. Of course the best thing for humanity and the world would be it's complete disappearance, but that being unlikely short of nuking Mecca, Medina and the probably entire Muslim world. Perhaps if the Sunnis and Shiites just wipe each other out like they're want to do they can solve this problem for us.
(78) Andy Danzig, February 22, 2019 3:20 PM
Unfortunately, Omar's views shared by many Jews
It's a sad commentary that many Jews, e.g. J-Street, Shalom Center, and others, espouse the same views as Omar. People too often mistakenly believe that we'll be more accepted or even liked if we adopt behaviors, customs, ideas of the larger community. Unfortunately, we don't realize until it's too late that our enemies will lull us to sleep with this false sense of security.
(77) J.A.Lemelle, February 21, 2019 10:55 PM
The sinister truth appears, based on her pattern of verbal assault against the Jews, Congresswoman Omar, with the encouragement of her mentor Farrahkan, continues her venomous accusations like a viper in a kitten's disguise.
(76) Rafi Schutzer, February 21, 2019 7:32 AM
Time to Come Home to Israel
All the Jews in America are at risk now, even the ones that don’t intermarry. Time to get over here before they come for you . . . Again.
Yoni, February 21, 2019 4:21 PM
We need Moshiach
Is it safer in Israel? We desperately need Moshiach and then we’ll be safe. Until then, a Jew has no assurances of safety anywhere.
Rivka Rachum, February 24, 2019 4:42 AM
Coming Home
Your answer is to come home to Israel. How do you propose we pay for that? I made aliyah in 1987, and couldn't make it in Israel. I met with so much hostility from Israelis because I am an American, and there were no Hebrew language courses that I needed for my work. Israelis seem to have this fantasy that all American Jews are rich, or have family who are. I know from past experience just how much it costs to "come home". I would love to, but I cant afford it. Would you like to pay my way???
(75) MESA, February 20, 2019 2:42 PM
Ignorance is often the basis for hate and prejudice. Many people who once believed in the bigoted cant often came around to the right side once they knew better. It's possible that Ms. Omar is just an ignoramus. But ignoramuses don't belong in any position of leadership. She needs to be removed immediately so that she doesn't get in the way of people who are better educated, more sensitive, and can get the job done.
Natan, February 21, 2019 4:17 PM
Nothing to do with ignorance
Some uncomfortable realities:
The thing that we need to wake up to is that they don't want your/our education.
They don't need your/our permission to hate us. Some of the most virulent enemies of our past have been very educated about us and experts in whatever other field they were in.
It has nothing to do with ignorance - accept that you/we will NOT educate them into accepting us.
The inverse is also true. Namely, we do NOT owe them an explanation. We need to do what we are charged with and make it clear we don't need their approval. When we explain, it only weakens us in their eyes (and in our own).
Visions of a long-lasting golden era for Jews in America are proving to be wrong before our very eyes.
Europe is obviously worse.
The best way to fight anti-semitism is to put our money where our mouths are (we say it every day in our Amidah prayer) - move to Israel. This is not Zionism - this is Judaism.
As usual, G-d is reminding us through our enemies what the basic facts are: The enemy doesn't separate Jew and Israel - neither should we...
Natan, February 21, 2019 4:18 PM
Got nothing to do with it
Some uncomfortable realities:
The thing that we need to wake up to is that they don't want your/our education.
They don't need your/our permission to hate us. Some of the most virulent enemies of our past have been very educated about us and experts in whatever other field they were in.
It has nothing to do with ignorance - accept that you/we will NOT educate them into accepting us.
The inverse is also true. Namely, we do NOT owe them an explanation. We need to do what we are charged with and make it clear we don't need their approval. When we explain, it only weakens us in their eyes (and in our own).
Visions of a long-lasting golden era for Jews in America are proving to be wrong before our very eyes.
Europe is obviously worse.
The best way to fight anti-semitism is to put our money where our mouths are (we say it every day in our Amidah prayer) - move to Israel. This is not Zionism - this is Judaism.
As usual, G-d is reminding us through our enemies what the basic facts are: The enemy doesn't separate Jew and Israel - neither should we...
(74) Irv Blank, February 20, 2019 11:47 AM
Time for all politicians to speak out
It is time for all politicians to condemn Rep Omar for her history of anti-Jewish remarks and contribution to the rise in anti-semetic activity throughout America. Leadership, partisans, Jew and non Jews need to speak out at every opportunity and every time Omar repeats this vile attack on American Jews and Israel. She should be stripped of committee assignments and position in the Congress. She should become the poster child for the unacceptability of her anti-Jewish speech. She is entitled to her beliefs, but those who disagree with her should respond and respond loudly. quickly, and at the ballot box. Attempts to educate her are useless, as are her lame apologies. Exposure is required as Senator Lats demonstrates.
(73) Tanya, February 20, 2019 5:11 AM
Ms. Omar and Jewish community
I wonder what is the percentage of Jews in Minnesota who voted for Ms. Omar? Don't tell me please that Ms. Omar deceived Jewish community. She was pretty open in her supporting BDS and expressing other antisemitic sentiments towards Jews and Israel. It is more a problem of Jewish establishment in America than Ms. Omar antisemitism.
(72) Anonymous, February 19, 2019 10:26 PM
Those who rejoice at the mishap of others ,their's is just at the corner.
No human being should ever experience Holocaust. This is so for me for I experienced in the Biafra war is not like the Jewish exactly and cannot be compared to what happened to the Jews. No Nation in the world has suffered more than the Jews. Enough is enough. People born today have no idea how humans were slaughtered with no remorse or feeling to a fellow human being. People run their mouth without checking facts, even some still don't believe Holocaust happened. SAD !
(71) Anonymous, February 19, 2019 9:16 PM
Fire her immediately!
Fire her today. As in 2/18/19.
(70) Anonymous, February 19, 2019 8:54 PM
farrakhan is Omars big supporter
sadly these 2 anti semites have free speech to make there racist slurs acceptable.
In many countires their offensive speech would lead them to be charged with hate speech. Farrakhan is a senile old fool. Does he even accept that muslims enslaved many black Africans in the past. Omar will eventually be given retribution. It is well deserved
(69) Al Zelczer, February 19, 2019 8:50 PM
1202 Fountainview Drive.
Excellent article.
I hope that my so called "Democratic " extremist friends will read and absorb the well reasoned clarity and line by line support of your statements.
Thank You.
(68) Jon Joyce, February 19, 2019 6:10 PM
Very well written
This is an excellent article and needing to be read by many who, unfortunately, won't ever do so. However, there is another side to this whole thing. The most interesting and fearsome statement in this article is somehow hidden by being couched in "goodness," and it is, "Doesn’t Omar know that in Israel today, 10 percent of Israeli parliament (Knesset) members are Arab; that 30 percent of students at Hebrew University in Jerusalem are Arab; that one-third of the staff at Israel's Hadassah Hospital – arguably the leading hospital in the Middle East – are Arabs?" When the Israelites were standing at the edge of the promised land, Moses once again warned them to not intermingle with the inhabitants of the land, but we all know what happened, and it was downhill from there. We are stupidly doing the very same thing in reverse, and we'll pay a price in the long, or tragically, the short run!
(67) Deborah McLaughlin, February 19, 2019 6:06 PM
Cannot continue
We cannot ignore this woman’s comments, nor those of others in Congress who are showing their true colors, their lies and their hypocrisy. This is how this element infiltrates and destroys. Were the situation reversed there would be shouting from the rooftops. We must call on our own representatives to speak out agains such speech and remove or at least sanction this woman. She is dangerous, evil, and unworthy to be in our government. Please wake up - this feels like history repeating itself.
(66) yosef chaim, February 19, 2019 5:58 PM
Enemy
The enemy has infiltrated the US Congress and they know it but their disdain for Jews and hate of Trump stop them from ridding their house of a virus. Omar is the loud mouth; the Palestinian congresswoman ... look at her handlers... they are the real problem...they have her mouth taped shut...they are savy political players from the PLO...the real virus
(65) Anonymous, February 19, 2019 5:38 PM
this article is all correct and true.
Omar's apology is a lie, for which the democrats were all too happy, Now they are off the hook too, and can still claim to be the "all inclusive humanitarian party" compared to the 'racist Republicans". She is not "happy to be educated about antisemitism". Baloney. She is the face of modern antisemitism. She should be made to resign. She is using her congressional seat as a launch pad for her jihad against Israel and the Jews.
As for the Dem's ? We see the direction they are going. We have Keith Ellison. We have the liar Obama, who for twenty years listened to the antisemitism of Rev Wright, then claimed "he wasn't paying attention", and Carter who championed "the legitimite rights of the Palestinians" ( to murder Jewish children on schoolbuses". and Dem's flocking to Farakhan, the arch lying racist. , and Al Sharpton,, a frequent white house guest and kissy -kissy with Obama, and who incited a black crowd in the stabbing death murder of Yankel Rosenbaum, in the Crown heights riots.
Their lies must be exposed and they must be defeated.
And let's not forget his "holiness the Pope", and his Church, who for centuries have claimed to be the superior religion from the accursed murdering Jews, and the only true path to G-d, but where the path seems instead to lead to the sexual abuse of children, who declares a palestinian state, but claims that Jews have no right to Jerusalem since "it was captured in a war" (victorious in a war started by the enemy for genocide of Jews).
G-d help us all from the likes of these.
(64) Sheldon, February 19, 2019 3:33 PM
Liberals Asked For Her
If you look at the constituency who elected her, you'll find upper-middle class suburbs with substantial Jewish populations. She is a consequence a the liberal search for moral melodramas to demonstrate alignment with the angels. After all, she is a "minority" and a "refugee" and a "woman". What an opportunity to demonstrate "diversity'! Be careful of what you wish for because you may get it. Perhaps "liberals" will get the message.
Anonymous, February 24, 2019 1:22 AM
She's not just a "minority", a "refugee" and a "woman". She actually is a minority, a refugee and a woman.
(63) N.S. Greenfield, February 19, 2019 3:32 PM
cancel "pictures''
Good article. However, by showing pictures you give her too much "publicity". It's bad enough that she is an anti-Semite, don't glorify her!
(62) Sasha Zubie, February 19, 2019 2:18 PM
Liberal Minnesota Jews elected her
As history shows us, we Jews are our own worst enemy. Liberal Minnesota Jews leading Jewish organizations in the community campaigned for and elected Omar, knowing fully well what her opinion in Israel was. They also do not support Israel. Reminds me of a time not so long ago where German Jews also considered themselves so German than they put their Judaism aside. When they come for the Jews they come for all of the Jews people and they don’t care if you supported Israel or not. Disgusting and frightening.
(61) Anonymous, February 19, 2019 1:32 AM
So what can be done about ? Other religious/ethic groups would not rest until a person Like this is removed from her committee and sanctioned; we are too passive
Anon, February 19, 2019 7:43 PM
I agree. I would also like to do something. She should be forced to resign.
(60) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 11:57 PM
Teacher for Social Study
Shalom and Boker Tov to my friends. Othherwise, I don't like and dislike how Ilhan Omar USA CONGRESS WOMAN badly spoke to ISRAEL STATE. A I am very sorrow about all of her bad evil speech and false empty speech. And I am appologizing for her speech. Other hand, Ilhan Omar is one of the SOMALIAN JEWISH PEOPLE LIVE IN USA. But, unfortunately she didn't know that herself is children of the Abraham. Other hand, she didn't has any more about JEWS/ISRAELIS. So that, I am imforming my friends who are JEWS OR ISRAELITES to know Ilhan Omar is one of the us. And we must to respect for her appologizing and welcome her and teach her forefathers and her descendants of Abraham Isaac and Jacob. Please, in order to recognize that she is one of the the us (SOMALIAN JEWISH PEOPLE) look her DNA RESULTS. Let us show our little girl of Ilhan Omar USA CONGRESS WOMAN to Join us and our efforts to stand with and support ISRAEL STATE. OTHHERWISE, LET US PROTECT OUR DAUGHTER ILHAN OMAR OUR ENEMIES OF ARAB GOVERNMENTS LEADERS AS SAUDI ARABIA AND EMARATES CRIMINAL KINGS. ADONIA BARUCH B'NAI ISRAEL AND ERETZ ISRAEL AND BEIT YERUSHALAYIM AND JUDAISM VAED AMEN AMEN AMEN.
(59) Brad Seruya, February 18, 2019 11:08 PM
Article was very well written. Well spoken
(58) M. Gerald. Fried, February 18, 2019 11:05 PM
She should be remove from congress immediately.
She is a racists, bigot. We don’t need antisemetic , bds supporter. We didn’t learn from WW II That the Democratic Party did nothing to save the JEWS. During next presendial race send Democrat’s a message.
(57) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 10:28 PM
We should organize protests and get rid of her.
(56) Gabriele Klein, February 18, 2019 7:46 PM
.. as there can be no "discourse"
with Hitler's "Stürmer" (its neither worth the time nor the ink)
so Ithere can be no discourse with this "lady"......... just ignore and spare your sanity. One should not give them the stage they seek by responding.
Its a well known technique of Hitler
s fans to propose stuff that they fully well know is wrong in the hope to get a stage and a public debate going which can then be used to manipulate public perception.
The public defense in such scenario in and of itself is harmful because of the sleeper effect according to which the brain in the end will not distinguish between the critisized examples of antisemitism by this Rabbi and the one put forth by this lady. Therefore instead of responding to this lady why not inviting her to defend Islam's blasphemy laws and explicate... Who is the god of Islam? Allah or Mohammed and to whom do the blasphemy laws up to this day apply and why? One might also invite her,to defend Mohammed's sexual preference for 7 year oldAischa. By attacking Israel this lady tries to distract from examining the utter depravity of her own religion a religion that is nothing less than a call for genocide. Doesn't Mohammed mandate to kill the last Jew and the Infidel? In his call for Jihad does he make any difference between soldiers and civilians? But oh, I forgot, that might be "apartheit"
(55) Ed, February 18, 2019 7:35 PM
Nothing to Worry About Here
65-75% of U.S. Jews will always vote for the Democrats, no matter what. Nothing will ever change their minds. Next case.
Yoni, February 18, 2019 8:42 PM
Agree with Ed
I agree with Ed, many liberal Jews will vote Democrat come what may. It’s truly amazing how so many people engage in such self destructive behavior to their own people. The only explanation for this ludicrous and self destructive phenomenon that I can think of is that liberalism has replaced Judaism as the religion for many left wing Jews. And that is truly sad.
Unfortunately, liberal Jews are getting what they deserve by supporting these far left loony candidates. May Hashem help us all!
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 9:05 PM
There is rampant antisemitism on both the left and the right.
Yoni, February 18, 2019 10:13 PM
The anti Semitisim on the left is far more dangerous
While there is a lot of anti semitisim on both the left and the right, the major difference is that on the left it has become institutionalized, as an integral part of the Democrat party. The anti semitisim on the right remains an ostracized minority.
And even more troubling is the “mainstream democrats “ inability to clearly call out the anti semites among them.
Anonymous, February 19, 2019 7:48 PM
You are right.
Thank you for your indightful comments, Yoni.
Anonymous, February 20, 2019 7:51 AM
Nooo, wrong, wrong
The antisemitism on the right is not from just a few, or an ostracized minority. It has been and remains the party that embraces nationalism and its racist ideology. I vehemently disagree that antisemitism has become institutionalized on the left. Nationalism on the right is rising throughout many countries, the greatest rise this last year, along with its hateful acts, racist ideology and lives have been and continue to be lost. Nothing is more precious.
Yoni, February 20, 2019 1:44 PM
Unfortunately, correct
In the United States Congress, the Democrat party has to members sitting on prestigious committees that are vile anti semites. The republicans had one vile white supremacist who was immediately removed from his committee post without any questions asked (no begging for lame apologies). The first step in fixing a problem is recognizing that it exists. Unfortunately, it seems like many liberal Jews are still in denial, to our own detriment.
Layah, February 22, 2019 9:55 PM
Hate leads to hate
Why when Trump told the RJC that they could not buy him was that not called out as anti-Semitism, because he said he supported Israel unconditionally. But now that Trump said"definitely a 2 state solution" we can call out his "fine people on both sides" and not appointing a anti-Semitism special envoy for 2 years. Everyone should have been outraged in his demonizing immigrants, slurs against nFL players for quietly protesting racial profiling not soldiers, where was the out cry over his calling for a Muslim ban. Now that both democrats and Republicans call for a 2 state solution we can work on other causes like climate change, clean Air and water, affordable health care, and much more.
Yoni, February 24, 2019 5:54 PM
Actions speak louder than words
I think we all know that President Trump has his own unique way with words. However, look at his actions. By far the most pro Israel president in history. And look at the actions of the past administration vis a vis Iran. Definitely not very pro Israel.
I understand that it’s hard for a liberal Jews to see the political party that they have supported for so many years and have put so much money to is stabbing them in the back. But sometimes one needs to take a hard look in the mirror....
Anonymous, February 24, 2019 10:33 PM
I read last week
a comment by Anat Berko, Israeli Knesset, about Netanyahu reaching out to fascists, "they may be antisemitic, but they are on our side."
If anyone thinks aligning with an antisemite is okay because they are a Zionist (not all Zionists are Jews, not all Jews are Zionists, including ultra-orthodox, and there are antisemitic Zionists) I am thinking they need to look in the mirror.
Antisemitism in forms of swastikas, assault on property and person, is rising at an alarming rate.
I have no use for anyone who doesn't care about that, Zionist or not. Jews in diaspora need to be able to worship in freedom. Trumps "othering" and nationalism is too divisive. And the occupation is harming the collective Soul of the Jewish people.
Yoni, February 26, 2019 4:21 AM
The simple reality
I think we can all agree that Antisemitism in forms of swastikas, assault on property and person is terrible, scary, dangerous and must be stopped. However, past events, with the vile tweets and comments from two DEMOCRAT Muslim congresswomen, and the inability of the “mainstream “ democrats to do more than beg for a lame apology leads one to believe that the ones that will be standing up to and fighting anti semitisim will not be on the left. After all , they wouldn’t want to jeopardize the fresh future of the party.
I truly sympathize with Jewish liberals as I’m sure it’s hard to face the reality that the party that you’ve voted for blindly for years really doesn’t care about you. However, you only live life once, it’s never to late to change!
May Hashem help us all and bring Moshiach soon!
(54) joseph cohen, February 18, 2019 6:23 PM
anti semitic
She is a bigot and anti semitic and there is no place for her kind in the public lives of our representatives
(53) Susan Bonnici, February 18, 2019 2:50 PM
She needs to go!
It's beyond time for the world to be vividly educated about the crimes against humanity perpetrated by Islam over the centuries, which is incompatible with democracy. There is a wake of destruction of the human spirit enshrined in the Quran!
(52) paula, February 18, 2019 2:10 PM
Jewish Currants website below
https://jewishcurrents.org/essay/bad-faith/
This is a Jewish Liberal site. This is a different way of thinking...if they can think of course i totally disagree. I wish they had some way to respond back to them on their website.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 8:32 PM
What about the antisemetic hatred on the right, she cites
Is there a reason this community of posters is intentionally ignoring it? Just this last Shabbos a Chabad House in NewYork, had its window broken in, while the Rabbi and Rebbetzin were inside with other members Davening. In Australia, France and Germany, and the U.S. alt. right Nationalism is leading to a severe increase in antisemitic acts, vandalism, swastikas, assault, death. A Shul in my town was vandalised with hate, and swastikas.
Why is this okay with you? Because it appears to be as you rile against the Left.
Yoni, February 18, 2019 8:49 PM
The left is far more dangerous
The answer is that the hatred on the left has become institutionalized, as an important part, and perhaps the future of the Democrat party. This can be clearly seen in the contrast to how Omar’s hate was addressed by the Democrat party (please say your sorry) to how Steve Kong’s hate was addressed by the republicans (kicked off all committees).
Hate is hate and needs to be swiftly and decisively felt with. The Democrats chose not to. And that is very scary.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 9:07 PM
It's not because she's liberal, it's because she's a minority.
Yoni, February 18, 2019 10:19 PM
It’s probably because she was attacking Jews, who it’s ok to hate. Liberal Jews would rightfully angrily denouncing such rhetoric had it been against blacks, asians etc. But when it’s jews being attcked for some reason it’s ok to beg for an apology and then completely except the half hearted apology as case closed.
Anonymous, February 19, 2019 9:13 AM
Reaching out, building bridges
https://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-5466089,00.html
We have to take steps together as One people, to Sanctify HaShem's name. This article is about American Rabbis spending a year in Israel. I used to think the only bridge we needed to focus on was between us and the Palestinians. I see now, it is between us and us! The left and right. The secular and the religious and every level of observance in between.
As antisemitism rises, it must all be denounced, on the right and on the left. And, we must, must take care not to label as antisemitism legitimate criticisms just because they are uncomfortable to hear. (Not saying at all, Omar's comments were legitimate, they were absolutely not).
We must come together as one people; enough of the 'loony left' and 'demo-crats.'
Jews affiliated with both parties mean only good and for the best for all Jews; I believe it in my heart and soul. We have to care for one another, all of us, together.
Yisroel, February 19, 2019 5:20 PM
Swastikas are not “right” Nazis we’re leftists
Swastikas show the hatred of the National SOCIALIST party.
If you insist on calling Nazis “alt-right”, which i believe is a ploy by some to distance the Nazis from their socialist legacy, they are still not accepted as mainstream by the conservative or right wing constituencies. The leftist anti Semitic congresswomen are glorified in the media, are on important committees that affect israel, and have received only token chastisement from the Democrats.
Anonymous, February 19, 2019 6:27 PM
Nazis were far right wing extremists, nationalists, fascists.
They were Not the left, not socialists, regardless of socialist being in their name.
There is no debate about this. Do not push incorrect infornation, it helps no one.
(51) Natan, February 18, 2019 2:07 PM
Only going to get worse
Some uncomfortable realities:
The thing that we need to wake up to is that they don't want your education.
They don't need your/our permission to hate us. Some of the most virulent enemies of our past have been very educated about us and experts in whatever other field they were in.
It has nothing to do with ignorance - accept that you/we will NOT educate them into accepting us.
The inverse is also true. Namely, we do NOT owe them an explanation. We need to do what we are charged with and make it clear we don't need their approval. When we explain, it only weakens us in their eyes (and in our own).
Visions of a long-lasting golden era for Jews in America are proving to be wrong before our very eyes.
Europe is obviously worse.
The best way to fight anti-semitism is to put our money where our mouths are (we say it every day in our Amidah prayer) - move to Israel. This is not Zionism - this is Judaism.
As usual, G-d is reminding us through our enemies what the basic facts are: The enemy doesn't separate Jew and Israel - neither should we...
(50) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 1:18 PM
You vote in trash you get trash. Just there to bash Israel for her cause which is not the united States
(49) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 12:34 PM
As a black am col!ege student in the 70s I am no surprised by their hate they made our lives miserable
(48) Regina F Schild, February 18, 2019 7:26 AM
The REAL Problem
Schumer barely said a word about it. Shame on him.
Just wait and see how many lefty, liberal American Jews will "forgive her", despite the reality of her deep-seated Jew hatred.
The fact that she wasn't thrown out of Congress shows the rest of the Jew-haters that it's ok. She will keep her hatred under raps for a while but anyone with a brain who chooses to use it knows she will do everything in her power to ruin America's support of Israel. Thank GD we have President Trump - may Hashem protect him and his family.
By the way, his criticism of what happened in PIttsburgh was correct, albeit like salt in a wound: if there had been ARMED SECURITY, the shooter would not have managed to kill so many people.
AM YISROEL CHAI.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 11:17 AM
Regina you are so correct!
You said it perfectly Regina. AM YISROEL CHAI, and this article was so powerful. Thank you for your writing Regina.
(47) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 6:08 AM
Who is she anyway.
Like Bin Laden she came from the cave the same as all her barbaric,ignorant ,terrorists supporters . Can't even look at her. Disgusting.
(46) Charkie Hall, February 18, 2019 5:39 AM
She voted twice for this pro Israel resolution
(11) It is in the national security interest of the United States to combat anti-Semitism around the world because-- (A) anti-Semitism is a challenge to the basic principles of tolerance, pluralism, and democracy, and the shared values that bind Americans together; (B) there has been a significant amount of anti-Semitic and anti-Israel hatred that must be most strongly condemned; and (C) there is an urgent need to ensure the safety and security of Jewish communities, including synagogues, schools, cemeteries, and other institutions. (12) It is in the foreign policy interest of the United States to continue to emphasize the importance of combating anti-Semitism in our bilateral and multilateral relations, including with the United Nations, European Union institutions, Arab League, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. (13) Because it is important to the national security interest of the United States to maintain strong bipartisan support for Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East, all attempts to delegitimize and deny Israel's right to exist must be denounced and rejected. (14) It is in the national security interest of the United States to oppose restrictive trade practices or boycotts fostered or imposed by any foreign country against other countries friendly to the United States or against any United States person. Approved by the US House of Representatives last week.
(45) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 5:05 AM
Well said. We’ll communicated. Well written. Thank you.
(44) Saron, February 18, 2019 4:04 AM
who said what Israel lives! there is always Jews and whether they like or not always the haters cray Benjamin in their wallets. the Israelite whom my parents and great parents though me about their history are a blessing and we love them. yes there are haters of Israel, the Jew at the same time there are friends and distance relatives of the Jew too. Remember that! again they are not a treat to the world but a blessing to the world. get over it! i am from east Africa :)
(43) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 3:42 AM
Dangerous and Vile
This evil monstrosity of a human being represents or rather misrepresents what those of us from Minnesota and also my home state believe and that is live and let live. We support and help each other and don't hurt one another.
Cheryl, February 18, 2019 7:31 PM
I think I feel sorry for you Minnesotan's more than anybody. You are the ones who have to live daily with the shame that this evil woman was elected from your state to serve in Congress. I don't know if she can be removed from office, but if she can, I hope you find a way.
(42) Sheldon, February 18, 2019 2:50 AM
Serves Liberals Right
Many of the towns in her district are upper-middle class suburbs with substantial Jewish populations. I'll bet that many liberal Jews, in an ongoing quest for a moral melodrama to prove they're on the side of the angels, voted for her. After all, she is a "minority" and a "refugee" and a "woman". What a chance to kvel about how liberal and progressive we are!
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 9:09 PM
She's not just a "minority", a "refugee" and a "woman". She actually is a minority, a refugee and a woman.
(41) Mark Cohen, February 18, 2019 2:34 AM
Now apply the same critical approach to Trump
I agree with Rabbi Shraga Simmons' point of view and his spot on criticism of Omar. Now, apply the same critical analysis to Trump. Trump has openly embraced authoritarian dictators and anti-Semites. His actions have openly couraged hate and anti-Semitism. Trump has lied repeatedly to the American people. Perhaps I missed the article, (and I confess, I have not done an exhaustive search), but has Rabbi Simmons denounced Trump for his hateful actions and harm to the Jewish people? Trump, the alt-right, anyone including Congressperson Omar must be condemned for their anti-Semitism.
Sheldon, February 18, 2019 3:03 AM
Is Mark Kidding
What about Trump's Jewish son-in-law and grandchildren? Which President recognized Jerusalem and Israel's capitol?
Which President embraced the Iranians and sent them skid loads of small bills (for what purpose)? It was not Trump.
Mark, you're only stating liberal orthodoxy and the Democratic party line.
Rachel, February 18, 2019 7:24 AM
This is why each individual should be judged for individual actions
I don't think Pres. Trump is an anti-Semite. However, he couldn't bring himself to criticize the Charlottesville "Jews will not replace us" crowd.
Pres. Obama negotiated a denuclearization agreement with Iran. Return of Iranian assets was part of that agreement-- that was the purpose of the return of money to Iranians. The Trump and Netanyahu administrations are the only two opposing the Iran deal.
As for Pres. Clinton "sharing the stage" with Farrakhan, the article fails to nite that both were attendees at the funeral of an artist and civil rights leader. I have never heard that one should ask mourners about the funeral attendee list to determine if one is entirely comfortable with their presence.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 8:27 AM
Agree, the right should *also* be called out, here's 6 examples
https://theintercept.com/2019/02/15/ilhan-omar-aipac-republicans-anti-semitism/
6 anti-semitic comments from House members, and they are not by Omar.
Nancy, February 18, 2019 2:08 PM
To commenter Rachel
Yes! It is the individual's actions that count in the end. The words liberal and conservative are not profanities.
Yoni, February 18, 2019 3:48 AM
Jewish Liberals
I believe there’s almost nothing that can awaken a great number of liberal Jews. Liberalism has become a religion and a matter of faith. It’s so ludicrous to compare President Trump to Omar. President Trumps policies have been solidly pro Israel across the board. Yet somehow he’s equated with this BDS Hitler wannabe. Unfortunately, I think liberal Jews are getting what they deserve in the new fresh faces (and anti Semitic) far left candidates they endorse. May Hashem help us all!
(40) Jeanne Lewis, February 18, 2019 2:32 AM
She will never change.
She will never change or back down. She's emboldened by the silence of everone else. Her kind shout the loudest while everyone else cowers in fear. It's time for the 'silent majority' if we are still the majority to stand up be counted. Let's finally show what we're made of.
(39) K Waters, February 18, 2019 2:24 AM
I stand with you!
I totally agree with your article and am horrified by this woman's statements. I honestly do not know how she got elected but Pelosi did a grave disservice to our country by putting this idiot on the Foreign Affairs Committee. Omar does not care about or understand my country; I truly believe she is working to destroy the United States. I must preface my remarks by saying I am not Jewish but I subscribe to your web site and read a lot of it. I am concerned for the Jewish community, a community I see as vital for the future of America. May God save us all from people like this Omar woman. And may she get defeated on the next election.
(38) Anonymous, February 18, 2019 1:05 AM
Anyone who is 12 is patently anti-Semitic views should be summarily voted out of office
Anyone in this pen clip anti-Semitic should be voted out of office as soon as possible using the constitutionally legitimate means of the vote. Also her views their views on various issues should be carefully monitored and made known to the public. All effort should be made educator and defend this country from its detractors/enemies both foreign and domestic. We are the most democratic and free country in the world and I’m proud to be an American. And if they can’t do it I would fight for Americans freedom
(37) Reynaldo Cobo, February 17, 2019 11:49 PM
Impeach ilmsm oh an
Please organize an impeachment movement to oust this Muslim pro Hamas from congress.
(36) Sean Anderson, February 17, 2019 11:02 PM
Words that bring healing
In Proverbs it is written “There is one whose words are like the thrusting of swords but the words of the wise bring healing.” We need leaders who can bring wisdom and strong moral counsel into public discourse and rebuke and refute purveyors of hatred.
(35) Dr. Donna F., February 17, 2019 10:46 PM
Other questions to ask. . .
Doesn't Omar know about the gender apartheid Palestinian women face? Does she not see their oppression by the so-called Palestinian leaders? Does she not see the mandated head covering of women in Gaza? Does she not see the lack of Palestinian women in government jobs such as legislative, judicial, and security?
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 11:29 PM
Not to mention the racism and homophobia the Palestinian "leaders" show constantly.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 7:29 AM
And what has she got to do with Palestine?
Rep. Omar is a Somali refugee. I can't understand her attitude toward Israel, with which she has no known connection. Neither Islamophbia, anti-Semitism, homophobia, sexism nor racism should be tolerated in our leaders. She needs to get schooled, fast.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 9:10 PM
Same as any other politician. She is a politician.
(34) Paul Rein, February 17, 2019 10:07 PM
Enough is enough
Is this really where we want the USA to go? Do we want to let this kind of person be a leader in our country. The biggest question I have is how the heck did the people of Minnesota elect someone like her?
(33) Peter, February 17, 2019 9:28 PM
Clearly
It is amazing how often false accusations are purely true of the false accuser rather than of whom they accuse - how clearly revealing. Sadly, she may be living in a terrible fear of what may happen to her if she does not make baseless accusations. Beer Lahai Roi, ‘well of the Living One who sees me,’ named by Hagar honoring Hashem who saw her and who told her to return and submit to her master - for her own good and the good of her son Ishmael. Truly, this was (Lahai Roi’s) Allah’s first command to Ishmaelites. How might all Ishmaelites benefit and learn from seeing the good blessings G-d bestows on their Israelite brothers if they would turn again and ‘see’ clearly how much He loves Israel? ‘Whoever searches for good finds good will yet, evil comes to the one who searches for evil.’ ‘Whoever blesses Israel will be blessed, whoever curses Israel will be cursed.’ - Hashem makes His love for Israel clear, always. ‘With the measure you use, it will be measured to you.’ May Israel remain blessed with good will and G-d’s Love forever!
(32) susan Barr, February 17, 2019 9:19 PM
She is a threat to democracy
This woman is evil, ignorant perhaps but I think more cunning than stupid. Her rhetoric is replete with hate and she is a danger to all of society If she is not removed from her position I will be forced to vote for anyone that is willing to stand up to her
(31) Nelson Kardos, February 17, 2019 7:42 PM
America has given refuge to the devil, conned by a smile
The sit'n with Rep Omar reminds me of an old TV episode from 1961 in the series "The Twilight Zone". The episode title was "The Howling Man.
The story took place in a small town in Germany in 1923. A traveler takes lodging in a remote monastery, and is awoken at night by a wolf like howling. The man investigates and finds there is someone locked in a cell and pleads the traveler to release him. The traveler talks to the Abbott of the monastery who informs him that the innocent looking man is the Devil himself. His lock on his cell is a simple staff "the staff of truth" which the devil himself cannot remove- the truth holds him prisoner. Someone else must remove that obstacle. The traveler removes the staff, and the "innocent prisoner" makes a visual transformation into the "devil" and disappears into a puff of smoke. The Abbott tells the traveler that the devil always take on a pleasing form to deceive mankind. The upshot of the story - the devil takes the form of Hitler and takes power on earth. I cite this old TV show for the parallel with Rep Omar. She pleaded for refuge from Somalia into the USA, and like the traveler in the Twilight Zone, our collective kindness was used against us- and we have let loose a malevalent devil into our country and even installed her into the U.S. Congress. If they ever revive that TV show, that episode could be replayed with Rep Omar- no changes needed. Quarantines against disease also works for quarantine to keep the devil from entgering
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 9:54 PM
America has given refuse....
Nelson Kardos - beautifully written and unfortunately so true.
(30) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 7:38 PM
Excellent
Well written,clear,precise, She needs to be educated and understand the importance of history and not a one-sided biases view,
(29) Bonnie Nickle, February 17, 2019 7:08 PM
She is still learning
She doesn't reflect my stance, but I like her, I 've heard worst hateful and cruel remarks. When are bridges going to built instead of walls. She gets her influence from her environment and those perhaps that are just as misguided. How about trying to reach out ?
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 7:26 PM
Not the popular stance, here, but I agree with you
about building bridges, and reaching out. She did apologize, and it came acoss as sincere to me. I also have heard far, far worse, that has been given a pass, and the dialogue for education must remain open. In any event, I don't think she is an anti-semite. I think she has strong issues with some Israeli governments policies and she suports BDS, as freedom of political speech, in the U.S.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 11:30 PM
I guess you didn't hear, but right after her "apology", she went right back to making anti-Semitic remarks.
(28) Gerald A. Honigman, February 17, 2019 7:08 PM
In “The Three Amigas,” I’ve addressed additional important material that this great piece by Rabbi Simmons does not...
http://www.geraldahonigman.com/blog/2019/02/16/the-three-amigas/ Sent from my iPhone
(27) JOHN D., February 17, 2019 6:35 PM
Unfortunately, no surprise
Do what I did, make a donation to AIPAC.
(26) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 6:15 PM
I do not feel that Ms. Omar REALLY represents most of the people of Minnesota And I live there I KNOW that she doesn't Represent me at all.
(25) DAS, February 17, 2019 5:41 PM
Well-written!
Another extremely well-written and immensely important article for all to read. When current issues in the world may cause one to want to cry, we must continue to point out hipocracy and calmly educate those within ear shot... To be a light unto nations.
(24) Maurice H, February 17, 2019 5:13 PM
Deleted comment
This comment has been deleted.
Naomi, February 17, 2019 6:02 PM
Very well said Maurice
I agree. Please sign this petition to expel her from congress (change.org).
(23) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 5:11 PM
Why say Omar should be held accountable if nothing is being done to impeach or limit her power in congress?
Get rid of Omar. She doesn't belong in congress representing people
She was elected under false pretenses.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 6:10 PM
Expel Omar
Please sign the petition to expel or remove Ilhan Omar. Change.org.
We are done with “being example” for everyone. Displaying weakness and being quite is same as giving a “green light” to far left and far right to be antisemites. The Media doesn’t even help here. God forbid if anyone makes islamophbia remark and you will see the media jumping all over him/her
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 11:32 PM
The politicians who supported slavery and genocide of Native Americans were, like Omar, lawfully elected.
DonL, February 17, 2019 6:30 PM
Those “false premises” are?
What are those? You know her constituency. Studied her platform to know, during her congressional tenure, the premises by which she was elected are “false”?
There would be at least a small exodus (no pun intended given the scroll from which study is our current parashot this last couple months) from our elected federal body - especially from the Representative house and our current chief Executive - were every politician from within both main parties to not check if they were in constant agreement with the sensitivities of Jews, blacks, hispanics, non-traditional sexual orientation, WASPs, etc..
Fortunately, we do not force someone out of ELECTED office based on disagreement with an identity’s sensitivities. We can metaphorically “slap their hand” by censuring them, as recently happened with another congressional member over his philosophy and views. But in the United States of America we do not toss out elected officials because we do not like their thinking, feelings and their statements.
We can harumph & cry “foul!” if that gets your emotions settled but that is all.
They do as you suggest, and worse, in other countries and political systems, but not mine. Baruch haShem.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 10:22 PM
Tolerance, Education Really?
All those whe talk about tolerance, education of the “innocent” Omar must either born in the US and used to be free and comfortable, don’t have a relative who died In Holocaust or just don’t care. Maybe also have a short memory or don’t want to remember the awful past. This how it start. If you could go back in time just 10-15 years and tell to own self what people say today about Israel and Jews, that there is a Muslims who are antisemite in congress you won’t believe it. So as you are tolerant to each of the steps the Democratic Party is taking (and heading) you became passive and blind to what is to come. If you don’t do something to stop it now, it will get wrose.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 7:37 AM
Where's your complaint about Steve King?
It seems you are fine with bigots as long as it's not directed at Jews. I was sick by Mr. King's comment that we can't build our country with other people's babies. I have Hispanic nieces and Nephews who speak fluent American English, have or are working toward college degrees, and have never been in trouble with the law. 70 years ago I doubt he would have been happy to have refugees from Eastern Europe, esp Jews. 150'years ago he would have been complaining about admitting Irish refugees fleeing starvation in Ireland.
Love your neighbor.
(22) Bernie Finn, February 17, 2019 4:59 PM
We can stand to lose this Congresswoman
This article is great and informative. We can pray that she will know that the country has been alerted to her offensive rhetoric and reform her behavior. I care not what is her religion or national origin. I care deeply for what are her politics. While the Democrats can little afford to lose a Congressional seat, we can stand to lose this one. Bernie Finn
(21) Frances Weingarten, February 17, 2019 4:52 PM
Ilhan Omar's ugliness
Ilhan Omar is one of the ugliest women spewing invective today. She is truly a hateful woman, a strident anti-Semite and a Jew hater par excellance. She should certainly be removed from Congress as a person as hateful and anti-Semitic as she is has no place in any government organization. Please do the world a favour and remove her!
(20) Mark Steyne, February 17, 2019 4:49 PM
Clearly Omar is antisemitic
As the socialist party in the UK has been infiltrated by antisemitism, so has the Democratic Party in the US. Discourse will never cleanse antisemitism from the minds of those who adopt such attitudes . We must be vigilant and prepared for all eventualities . This time we have as much to fear from the left as well as the right wing.
(19) Helen Dudden, February 17, 2019 4:43 PM
More of the same.
In the UK we continually out up with similar issues. How do we control those with radical views? Not out them into high government positions for a start. In France there is more of the same for French Jews. I think society has to be firmer.
(18) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 4:43 PM
Omar
Omar has no business holding a government office she is to biased
(17) Clifton, February 17, 2019 4:38 PM
She is beneath contempt
“Does Omar not know”. She is willfully ignorant. The same as all bigots and racist. But, due to her religion and skin color and gender the leftist media gives her a pass. The woman is beneath contempt.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 6:22 PM
Exactly
Exactly. She should be removed, she is not fit to be in office. Talking about “loyalty to other countries” while she does the same for the enemies of Israel. It’s called separate and control. First they define Israel as “wicked” and other names I don’t dare put it in writing. Then they separate US Jews from supporting Israel, once it all set in people minds then it’s easy for them to be antisemite in public, and there will be no backlash. Does this remind you a period in history about Jews in general. Stop being sheep.
(16) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 4:34 PM
Why are you surprised?
I continue to be disappointed in the ignorance of the western mind on how different the eastern radical mind operates. Look at history, the radical Islam mind considers anyone not Islam unworthy to be truthful to and have no obligation to be truthful to them but can lie to advance. There is no moral obligation to the non believer. That is how countries are conquered, deception and then force. I empathize with those who want peace and diversity but there is an agenda and we see evidence of the deception daily. For now we can only try to include those who are non radical and expose and remove those that are found out.
(15) Mario Zamora, February 17, 2019 4:34 PM
What Ms. Omar should know
Rabbi Simmons you failed to mention WHO Ms. Omar owes her civil rights as a black person in America. Including WHO was supporting the civil right movement since early 20 century, fighting for the dignity of African Americans and funding civil right causes. Also WHO was behind MLK in every turn and then Ms. Omar may know WHO she owes her freedom to speak in public and to prosper as a black woman. In case she already knew that and anyway she decided to attack us as viciously as she did she is an evil person.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 11:33 PM
She doesn't identify as black.
Elias, February 19, 2019 10:49 PM
Then as what?
Then as what?
Anonymous, February 24, 2019 1:22 AM
Arab
(14) Judith Dowla, February 17, 2019 4:32 PM
Bah Humbug!! War of The Words!
same old, same old whipping going on. if you can't blame yourself then blame the Jews. weakness in that kind of thinking and it will go on and on until somebody stops it. over time no one will bother to read the media as it becomes sickening and boring going no where fast. amen
(13) Mara Carty, February 17, 2019 4:30 PM
Response to Rabbi Simmons. Toda.
Thank you Rabbi Simmons, I appreciate and concur with your detailed, precise and powerful article here on the overall evolution of Intolerance, Anti Semitism, ignorance and sad response by USA Congress. Ms. Omar is a symptom of a larger looming hatred in society. As an ardent Zionist I laud the State of Israel, the only Democracy in this Middle East region. One must continue with education on this savage hatred being perpetuated. Time is of the essence.
(12) maria linde, February 17, 2019 4:28 PM
Omar is ana antisemitic racist
Omar should be arrested because she is a racist and she can be compared to Hitler and to the nazis. She should be deported from the US with her family
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 7:43 AM
And your ignorance of US law is astounding
Ms. Omar is an American citizen. No one can be arrested, much less charged and deported, based on their political opinions, no matter how objectionable. I will support her opponent in 2020, but I will defend her right to hold and speak about opinions just as I will defend yours and my own.
Read the First Amendment.
(11) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 4:22 PM
Great Article all correct and we should immediately dehold her accountable!!!
Great Article and she should immediately be taken off any committee and be accounted for her statements- she is fully aware of what she is doing - she is EVIL!!
(10) Nancy, February 17, 2019 4:19 PM
Her comments are indefensible
I wish she would get the heck out of politics. Just step down. Btw—I am a liberal Democrat but I look at the PERSON and not the party before I vote.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 10:37 PM
Nancy
You own party doesn’t do anything about it but ask her to aplolagize (they most likely wrote for her what to say to shut up Jews). If a Jew would have said the same thing about Muslim he/she would most likely be asked to resign. The way she spoke to a Jew from her own party is disgusting. Please don’t make excuses for the Democratic Party. This is nog the party that was 15-20 years ago, this party becomes a party of radical and extremists in all ways.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 11:33 PM
Both parties have radicalized, and there is no party to represent religious Jews.
(9) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 4:17 PM
disgraceful Omar!
There is no room for this kind of anti-Semitism from a Muslim woman (or any person) who is in America ....as a politician..
She needs to step down from office..
The Democrats ....many of who are Jews....allow for this kind of rhetoric..
When will the hatred against Jews stop?!
seems like never, ever....
We have to do whatever we can to stop the hatred...on small and larger scales..
(8) Yitzchok Hillel Gruber, February 17, 2019 4:17 PM
Recall?
In many “parliamentary” democracies, recalling a representative and making stand again for election is the norm, unlike the United States, where a minimum term of two or six years is guaranteed At least for now, this is a Minneapolis and Minnesota problem, and we should call on Ron Latz to begin a change to Minnesota law to insure that Minnesota will never have another Ilhan Omar.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 7:45 AM
MN law?
Ms Omar has guaranteed First Amendment rights like every other American. I imagine Mr. Late would be the first to tell you that.
(7) Aaron, February 17, 2019 4:14 PM
Hypocrisy
I find it so interesting that the Jewish community gets all up in arms over such anodyne statements made by a Black Muslim Democrat but remained largely silent when the White Christian Republican President said far worse. “Fine people on both sides,” remember? Or how about “You don't want to give me money, OK, but that's OK. You want to control your own politician, that's fine.” I don’t remember anyone making a stink about that. Or when Jeffrey’s, the evangelical preacher who says Jews are all going to hell, have the convocation at the Jerusalem embassy opening. You’re entitled to selective outrage, but then the rest of the world is entitled to not take it seriously.
Nancy, February 17, 2019 4:56 PM
To commenter #7 Aron
I’m not giving a pass to any of the people you mentioned, FYI.
Anonymous, February 18, 2019 7:47 AM
You've got to be kidding
Most American Jews are Democrats who routinely oppose right wing politicians.
(6) Morton Friedman, February 17, 2019 4:11 PM
Not an 'anti-semite' just a 'pious' Islamic.
Rabbi, please read the Koran, her 'Bible'. It is rife with hatred toward the 'people of the 'Book''. The closest that a non-Islamic can expect of even tolerance is dhimmitude. Keep in mind those two pillars of Islam, hudna and takkiyah. Anti-semitism is just one step toward global domination, the next step will include anti-Christianity as well. Islam is an 'Equal Opportunity' cult.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 11:34 PM
The Koran places Jews and Christians as equals.
(5) Miriam Wolkenfeld Cohen, February 17, 2019 4:10 PM
What to do?
If this was known before she ran, why were there not actions to stop her. There must be a strong group backing her, now is the time to.act against her.
(4) ICEJ Philippines, February 17, 2019 4:08 PM
She must resign as a Congresswoman
Pelosi made the worst mistake of putting her in the Foreign Affairs committee. She must resign as a Congresswoman. Minnesota deserve a better person than her, who from day one she took office has been spreading hate . There are some who calls now the Democrats as "Demon crats". By the way I'm not a US citizen
but I admire Pres. Trumps support to Israel. I'm a Zionist Christian
Deborah McLauglin, February 19, 2019 6:08 PM
Was it really a mistake?
Pelosi must have know of her previous record of anti-Semitic statements. Why put someone like that on that particular committee. There is a dangerous element in Congress that needs to be watched carefully.
(3) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 3:54 PM
Smiling faces show no traces of the hate that lies beneath
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 5:25 PM
I can dig it!
(2) Elliot, February 17, 2019 3:53 PM
Cong. Omar and her antisemitism
If Jews continue to give donations to the Democratic party, in light of what Omar said, then we deserve what is coming around the next corner
zlate1, February 17, 2019 6:35 PM
Yes except those of us who haven't supported Democrats will suffer too.
For most of my adult life I was a member of the Democratic Party. The last few years before I left, I stayed only to be able to vote in the primaries. I live in New York.
Eventually I just couldn't stomach the lurch to the left and became an independent about nine years ago. The situation is that unfortunately those liberal Jews who vote and support the Democratic Party impact on all of us. We don't deserve to suffer with our shortsighted brethren.
As for people like Omar just recognize that they are our enemies and act accordingly. Forced apologies are worthless.
Anonymous, February 17, 2019 11:11 PM
Yes You expect all of us who haven’t supported Democrats...
You are absolutely correct. I was a Democrat when I received my citizenship 25 years ago, after only one elected I changed my affiliation to Republicans. This is because I knew already then who really stand with Israel and Jews in general and is not.
(1) Daniel Olgin, February 17, 2019 2:53 PM
Omar article
Thanks you for writing this comprehensive article that highlights the Jew hatred, hypocrisy and deception of Ilhan Omer. This article is also a rebuttal to the many people and groups such as Bend The Arc who are shamelessly defending Omar’s vile comments.