Why is racism the prejudice that is completely unforgivable, even if it happened decades ago, yet active anti-Semitism a la Farrakhan and his hate mongering ilk is not only tolerated but even embraced by some nationally recognized leaders?
We have witnessed the fall of numerous public officials and personalities over the slightest whiff of bigotry and racism (Roseanne Barr, Megyn Kelly, Gov. Ralph Northam and the blackface fiasco just to name a few).
One might think that these are positive indicators of contemporary abhorrence of bigotry, a societal awakening to the horror of prejudices which just a generation ago led to the Holocaust. But why hasn’t society’s heightened sensitivity to racism carried over to the most blatant expressions of anti-Semitism?
While racism forcefully ends careers, anti-Semitism doesn’t seem to endanger Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan or those who lovingly embrace him. And one does not need to go back to 30-year-old undergraduate journals to find examples of his anti-Semitism; as recently as a few weeks ago Farrakhan gleefully repeated his ongoing description of Jews as “termites.”
Here’s a recent sampling of the great body of hateful comments Farrakhan has made about the Jewish people (and others) over the years. “Jews were responsible for all of this filth and degenerate behavior that Hollywood is putting out, turning men into women and women into men…White folks are going down. And Satan is going down. And Farrakhan, by God’s grace, has pulled a cover off of that Satanic Jew, and I’m here to say your time is up, your world is through. You good Jews better separate because the satanic ones will take you to hell with them because that’s where they are headed.”
The response? Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) is seen on video recently embracing the hate preacher. Waters is famous for consistently pointing with disdain to countless others who she accuses of bigotry and racism. Obviously anti-Semitism doesn’t seem to count.
Tamika Mallory, co-President of the 2019 Women’s March, was confronted by The View co-host Meghan McCain over her friendship with Farrakhan. McCain decided to confront Mallory about support she and other members of the Women’s March have given to Farrakhan in the past and asked flatly if they condemn his statements. Despite McCain’s pressing for clarification, Mallory would not say she specifically condemned the statements from Farrakhan. What she did do, however, is say that she’d rather not be judged through the lens of a male, demonstrating that for her gender racism, attributing to all men the inability to judge fairly, is fine.
Mallory was proud to post a photo of herself with Farrakhan on Instagram that was captioned “Thank God this man is still alive and doing well. He is definitely the GOAT- the Greatest of All Time because of what he’s done in Black communities.”
Prominent activists such as Linda Sarsour and Melissa Harris-Perry have promoted the idea that racism is far worse than anti-Semitism – and anti-Semitism isn’t racism. Remarkable that they have chosen to remain ignorant of the most powerful lesson of the 20th century. It is true that for more than a millennium anti-Semitism was primarily identified with religious hatred. Jews were the Christ killers. It was Jewish faith that warranted the Crusades and their persecution. But Hitler gave anti-Semitism new meaning. Obsessed with race, Hitler did not single out religious Jews; he condemned to death the secular, the nonreligious, the converted-to-Christianity Jews solely on the basis of parentage going back numerous generations. Anti-Semitism was reborn as vicious racism. Although Judaism is a religion, not a race – someone can convert to Judaism but blackface can never make one a black – modern anti-Semitism is decidedly racist, singling out Jews whatever their faith or religious practice.
If contemporary culture is so finely attuned to the sin of racism it must be based on respect for the dignity of all human kind, blacks and whites, men and women, and Jews as well.
That was the gist of the federal ruling by U.S. Magistrate Mark Hornsby in a civil case filed by football coach Joshua Bonadona against his Baptist alma mater, Louisiana College. Bonadona says the school’s president, Rick Brewer, refused to hire him for an assistant coaching position because of what Brewer called his “Jewish blood.” Hornsby wrote in court filings that Jews deserve the protection afforded to racial and ethnic groups by Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which specifically deals with employment. He said that anti-Semitism in the United States historically was often not based on an individual’s religious belief but on the fact that he or she had Jewish roots. “Jewish citizens have been excluded from certain clubs or neighborhoods, and they have been denied jobs and other opportunities based on the fact that they were Jewish, with no particular concern as to a given individual’s religious leanings,” the judge wrote.
So too the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum recognizes anti-Semitism as racism and as “prejudice against or hatred of Jews based on false biological theories.”
The notion that anti-Semitism can be divorced from racism is, simply put, both anti-Semitic and racist. If contemporary culture is so finely attuned to the sin of racism it must be based on respect for the dignity of all human kind and the divine worth of all those created in the Almighty’s image. That goes for blacks as well as whites, women as well as men, and yes – Jews as well as those of all races and faiths. Cherry picking victims for whom to fight while ignoring and at the same time vilifying others is nothing less than hypocrisy masquerading as righteousness.
(44) ELLIE, June 7, 2020 7:01 PM
How true
Hate is hate and violence is violence. Neither is acceptable. We should be celebtarating our differences and respecting our diversity.
(43) Natan, February 19, 2019 1:25 PM
We need to face reality
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...
(42) Anonymous, February 17, 2019 4:55 PM
Clear explanation of deceptions from Farrakhan et al
Thorough explanation of the hate these so called responsible leaders preach. Detestable.
(41) cheryl rives, February 17, 2019 1:46 AM
Well said
I completely agree with the thoughts and ideas clearly expressed in this article. It is wrong to hate any particular group. It seems like anti-Semitism is "baked into" so many people who are not Jewish. It also seems to be spreading rapidly among many "liberal leaning" Jewish-Americans. Very sad on so many levels.
(40) Linda, February 16, 2019 9:07 AM
“‘I will make them hated by all the kingdoms of the earth. People will curse them . . .’”
—Jeremiah 29:18
Thank you for a very good article.
How accurate are the words of Hashem. Even antisemitism is from Him. He will deal with all who cursed Abraham, and with those who cause Jacob's trouble like He did with Pharaoh, Nebuchadnezar, Sennacherib and many others. "Everything is from Hashem. Everything from Hashem is for the best, Everything from Hashem has purpose." (R Shalom Arush)
(39) sb, February 15, 2019 8:10 AM
important article
(38) SB, February 15, 2019 8:08 AM
Good article
(37) Faith W.., February 14, 2019 7:22 AM
Congresswoman And Antisemitism
The Muslim Congresswoman showed complete arrogance and personal ignorance, both in her original comment and conceived apology. Instead Iof being asked to apologize she should have Immediately been asked to resign. It is apparent that we, too, have a long way to go toward equality but how long must we wait?
(36) Aaron Kinsberg, February 14, 2019 4:24 AM
"Im eshkachaich____tishkach yemini.": "Yerushalayim" or "liberal agenda"
Why the disparate response? We can thank the majority of Jews who are soooo liberal that their liberal/left agenda blinds them. Their priorities include "Im eshkachaich haliberalism..." For them to call out members of the left, or their allies, as anti-Semites would endanger their standing, that is if they even acknowledge that anti-Semitism exists in any group affiliated with the left.
(35) Anonymous, February 14, 2019 4:07 AM
The other anti-Semites
The left would have us think that anti-Semitism is a product of alt-right and Pres Trump. Aside from the fact that the Pres is anything but anti-Semitic, it is the left and their allies who are experts in modern anti-Semitism. Louis FaraKKKhan is but one branch. Social activist Jews who are pro-Israel are shunned. Pro-Israel speakers are attacked as the left & arabs yell that it is their freedom of speech to limit ours. The anti-Semitic trobes of the muslim members of the House mirror ramallah taqiyyah. Jews on campus have faced active anti-Semitism for a number of years. There is a correlation between leftist/arab activism on a campus and anti-Semitic attacks including swastika attacks.
The liberal controlled media, including quisling liberal Jews at the liberal media, are useful tools of the left and its allies. Their have been numerous attacks on Jews in Crown Heights and Williamsburg yet the liberal media is blind. It doesn't fit their agenda. The media was blind to the photo of the then, Sen Obama with FaraKKKhan in 2005. Had the media had a photo of Pres Trump with David Duke, it would be front page NY Times. Problem is too many liberal/lefty Jews identify with the left & its allies.
Most of the accusations from ramallah which the left willfully repeats are anti-Semitic while ignoring other nations who do worse is anti-Semitic. The left raises the banner of national self-determination for all ethnic groups etc but deny that right to Jews is anti-Semitism. To demonize our Zionism is to deny us our right and is anti-Semitism. To deny us out God given right is anti-Semitism.
Remember the above the next time you recite "...v'chol oyvecha m'hairah yekaraitu" And do what you can to actively oppose the anti-Semites from the left and their allies.
(34) Andrea Chester, February 13, 2019 5:22 PM
Nailed it.....again
I love Rabbi Blech.... I am one of your gentile readers....one of millions, I am sure, and I always scan your articles for something by Rabbi Blech to read first. Thank you for all your thoughtful, insightful articles. I have gotten several favorite authors from among your contributors..... May GOD speed the day when we ALL know and follow HIS Truth.
(33) Anonymous, February 13, 2019 12:39 PM
We are in Golus and this is part of our suffering. Look in Eichah where it says how we have become disgusting and filthy in the eyes of our enemies.
Even in America we are in Golus which many seem to have forgotten. And maybe his words are true. many Liberal Jews are responsible for the shmutz of Hollywood. Sometimes the truth is painful to accept. Reb Elchonon vasserman ZTL writes that without Neviim, Hashem sends us messages through the nations of the world.
We need to return to Hashem and his Torah and not bite the stick with which Hashem is pointing at us.
Hatzlocho Rabbo
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 3:22 PM
Yes, we are in galus.
As a liberal, Jew however, from an observant family, I disagree with that one sentence.
Mark Albert, February 14, 2019 10:10 PM
"Liberal Jew" in America means the same as Jew in denial.
(32) Anonymous, February 13, 2019 3:11 AM
Jealousy and envy are the evil of all problems! Jewish presence and contribution to America and the world is known, also I don't understand why America doesn't adopt laws like England and Germany where expressions of bigotry and hatred to others are forbidden! These laws if they existed , they could have silence Farrakan and others like him!
On bthe other hand, I do believe Judaism is a race and a religion, we are Semites, originally from the Middle East, what makes us different from others in the Middle East is our religion, being the followers of Abraham, by the way, Abraham himself was a Semite from the Middle East, and it is only when God appeared to him, that he embraced one God and Jewish religion started to develop from him in the first place. Wished you could comment on this!
Rachel, February 13, 2019 8:21 AM
First Amendment rights
The US Constitution prohibits hate speech laws.
Al Talena, February 14, 2019 4:10 AM
Cite quote
Uh, I wish you were right but sorry to say, I don't see it. Could you please quote the exact words. Kol Tuv,
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 9:57 AM
Freedom of speech in the USA is a prescious gift
In the USA, freedom of speech is perhaps our most important right.
It allows people to speak "truth to power."
It allows us to be critical of anyone or anything, even our leaders, and the most powerful historical figures in various religions. Freedom of speech means that
yes, our speech may be offensive to another person but that other person is not allowed to shut us up. To my understanding, offensive speech crosses the line if legally one can argue that the offensive speech encouraged violence or led to violent behavior (incitement).
When we have over 50 countries in the world today being ruled under sharia law, where blasphemy laws condemn people to death for their speech, we must preserve this gift of free speech.
The hateful language of people like Farrakhan certainly is wrong morally, but legally it is allowed. We have other legal ways in the USA to deal with such individuals such as debate, dialogue, education and to show him as an example of hate speech. The other possibility would be to not give him the attention that he most likely craves, so his rants fade into oblivion where they belong.
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 2:58 PM
Begotry and hatred expression should be the only exception in freedom of speech
Bigotry and hatred expression should be the only exception in freedom of speech, for the sake of future generations and the danger it implies, especially in our days where the Internet is full of racism, hatred, and bigotry decimination, and Israel in conflict with Palestinias intensifing it, this has to stop, and especially in America it should be forbidden! It should be zero tolerance for hatred and bigotry otherwise, I can predict a future where Jews people will need to leave America.
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 5:18 PM
But then there will be a loose interpretation of hate, and as the Russians say, we will continue to have freedom of speech, but we might lose freedom after speech.
Anonymous, February 14, 2019 1:37 AM
Speech of hatred harm people,
I understand what you are saying, but still speech of hatred and bigotry harm a people, especially hatred to Jewish people for no reason, we are aware of what the nazis did, or the spaniards during the inquisition, for no reason whatsoever, just professing hatred for a people who is adamant, smart, always productive in society, standing up for what is right, never, ever causing harm to anybody! I do believe speech of hatred is dangerous, especially in our days! Where BDS dicided to boycott Israel without having a clue on the history of the conflict, this is very clear to me, on top of this the emergence of the extreme right in so many countries, believe zero tolerance should be the way to go! If England and Germany did it why not America !
Anonymous, February 15, 2019 7:57 AM
"Legal" is not the same thing as "Moral"
As I have stated in my earlier post, hateful language is morally wrong but in the USA it is legal. Your suggestion that hateful expression be banned legally , while it is understandable, has the problem of 'who gets to determine that it is hateful?" If someone in public states that they feel gay marriage is wrong, is that now hate speech that should be banned legally? Can you see a problem with banning that legally? I can. What if someone criticizes another religion because they felt the founder of the religion was violent and he married a 6 year old? Is that now banned hate speech? It is a capital offense in countries like Saudi Arabia. A 12 year old Down's syndrome Christian girl was being tried for tearing a page in the Koran, with a potential death sentence . Her action was felt to be hateful. People might say "such a hateful action, tearing a page from that book..."
Let us fight hateful speech with other actions other than banning it.
(31) Anonymous, February 13, 2019 2:28 AM
Forgiveness - but only if you're Black.
Kevin Hart can make homophobic comments just TEN years ago, apologize and voila he's forgiven. Governor of Virginia appeared in Black face FIFTY years ago, runs on INCLUSIVITY and no forgiveness. The difference, Hart is Black but the governor is white!
Lea, February 18, 2019 4:22 PM
Not equivalent
Kevin Hart is an comedian not the governor, and he didn't think it was funny to dress up as some who killed gays. That being said I think if he did an apology tour like Kevin Hart, and real teshuva he could be forgiven.
(30) Lisa, February 13, 2019 1:49 AM
The height of hypocrisy
Rabbi Blech neglects to acknowledge that our President is a racist and he may love Israel and his daughter but has dabbled frequently in anti-Semitism. His party rarely calls him out and has no plans to ask for his resignation. Jews should not be fooled into thinking that support of Israel equals liking Jews. Republicans loved to rail about the evils of special interest lobbyists they disagree with. When Rebuplicans used rich Jews as boogeyman , I hope Rabbi Blech called this anti semetism out. We should continue to call out anti semetism but not every critism of Israel is anti-Semitic, the world will start to ignore us like the boy who called wolf.
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 10:03 AM
did you hear the State of the Union speech ?
President Trump's State of the Union speech was the most pro Jewish speech in my lifetime that I have heard from a President.
People really should find it on the internet and read it or listen to it.
He is the strongest supporter of Israel in my life time, based upon his actions and his words. He wisely understands the threat of jihadist violence which the prior President seemed to ignore. While his speaking style at times is
rude and blunt, I would argue he is not hateful towards Jews. By "anti-Semitic" are you referring to a different group from the Jewish people?
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 1:08 PM
She means the Jewish People
I agree completely with her post. I did see the State of the Union address. President Trump's words had mixed responses from Jewish organizations. I am of the camp that feels his rhetoric incited and instigated the terrible, terrible Pittsburgh tragedy. So, his words rang hollow to me. He is a terrible President for Jews in Diaspora as anti-semitism rises and no amount of anything could get me to vote for him or any republican. But, I do acknowledge he has been the best for the government of Israel and its policies.
Leonid Felgin, February 13, 2019 2:54 PM
Deleted comment
This comment has been deleted.
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 3:20 PM
I will always stand for Torah and Judaism
Your hatred, by calling another Jew, and there are frum democrats on this site by the way, I have read their posts, self - hating, which is a Hasbara propaganda term to silence criticism of Israeli politics and policies of government, is nothing but a Chilul HaShem.
Truth is, as a People a return to Torah would be more helpful, we are in galus, and HaShem governs all, not a military.
Anonymous, February 15, 2019 8:13 AM
The mixed responses from Jewish organizations
You made an interesting comment on 'mixed responses from Jewish organizations." Yes, that may be true. However I believe for some Jewish organizations and some Jewish individuals, they really have two religions--
"liberalism" and Judaism. And for some, 'liberalism' is their first religion.
Such individuals might support the Women's March for example, which has leadership that likes Farrakhan.
I believe that whomever the President might be, he does not control who votes for him or their individual actions.
The Pittsburgh tragedy was a terrible thing, yes, however I do not blame Trump for that. The blame belongs with the shooter.
Regarding anti-Semitism in the USA, there is plenty of Jew hatred and Israel hatred on college campuses coming from the political left. It has been going on for years, even during the Obama administration. However these events understandably do not get the same attention as the terrible shooting in Pittsburgh.
Chaya, February 15, 2019 10:14 AM
But, liberal values *are* Torah values
Loving the neighbor as self, kindness to the stranger, we were strangers in Egypt, values of Freedom, these are liberal *and* Torah values. "Proclaim liberty throughout the land for all inhabitants" is from Leviticus and on the Liberty Bell. It is a liberal value to protect and enhance liberty. Politically, I am a Democrat, and support liberal values, which are *Torah* values. We are to create a world where HaShem would want to reside. Regarding Judaism, my family is Frum and Modern Orthodox. I attend an Orthodox Shul. I believe Torah is from HaShem, G-d's word, and Mitzvot from Tzavta, connects us to HaShem. I believe in Divine Providence, and Pray for Moshiach.
Another poster on this thread said liberal Jews are 'delusional' Jews. Obviously, I disagree. It is painful to see the lack of tolerance for those on the 'left.'
Anti-semitism is rising and education is key, along with that Sanctifying G-d's name, Kiddush HaShem through our actions will bring light through the darkness. That is Judaism, and Torah values and Emunah, Faith in G-d, will sustain us. Whatever our political affiliation.
Bonnie Nickle, February 14, 2019 2:55 AM
Blinders on
He is a manipulator, that serves only himself and obviously his daughter.
marsha, February 13, 2019 8:31 PM
You can't be serious.
You're going to have to provide examples of Trump's alleged antisemitism. He's THE most pro Israel/pro Jewish president in my lifetime. (I was born during the Eisenhower administration) He honored Holocaust survivors at the SOTU. He was honored by the NAACP, do they usually honor racists? Please, take your blind Trump hatred somewhere else.
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 9:50 PM
Trump did not win an award from the NAACP.
https://www.good.is/articles/trump-naacp-award-inner-cities-debunked
I checked several sources.
Also, it is my understanding this site is for Jewish education, devoted to Trump is not a requirement.
At the end of the day, as a U.S. citizen you are free to vote as you wish, although the name calling, from others, idiot etc. speaks volumes about character from the right.
Anti-semitism is rising at a disturbing pace. The rhetoric has to stop, against 'others.'
(29) SSCCPA#1, February 13, 2019 12:29 AM
Thats the history of the Jews
The fact that we live in America has blinded what the Jews have gone through for over 3500 years.. Since the time of the 10 commandments the nations of the world had for the Jews. The 2 main religions of so called peace, has shown hate and animosity to the Jews since the Jews did not join the new cult. Christianty blamed the Jews for the guy on the cross and the blood libel that followed and preached by the leaders and islam started by that drunk which he shows the hate of Jews for not joining the new cult. All non muslims are infidels, but Jews stand out more since mo couldnt get Jews to join him. Look at what the coo coo ran says about Jews, lower than the ground... But those Jews who believe in being a Jew realize, through all what we have gone through we have survived, prospered in many ways, invented more proportionally than any nation, people in the world.. Therabbis wrote 1000 years ago, so many thins will happen before Moshiach will come: Besides the world hating the Jews, they world will say whatever is bad is considered good and whatever is really good, considered bad.. Sorry to say the world is in total disarray.. We Jews will be the fall guys again.. Lets hope that the Messiah will come sooner than later.. I know a lot of you non religious dont believe it, but that why the Jews who never forced conversions on people like the other 2 main religions are still here after all we have gone through..
ESTHER COOK, February 13, 2019 4:04 AM
Bigotry includes Muslim Hatred, too
I read half that rant against Islam and couldn't take any more. That, too, is bigotry.
And in my experience, most Americans DO see anti-Semitism as bigotry like any other. I got attacked as a Jew on a game website a year or so ago and my guildmates expressed the same outrage they would against any other unreasoning hate
(28) Elana Auerbach, February 12, 2019 9:35 PM
If anti-semitism gets a pass, you haven't been paying attention to current events with Congresswoman Ilhan Omar
anti semitism doesn't get a pass, farrakhan isn't an elected official. neither are the leaders of the women march org. that's the difference. if you still think anti semitism gets a pass, you haven't been following what's happening with congresswoman ilhan omar
why are the jews so hung up on farrakhan? yes, he spews hate and anti semitism and has for decades. nothing new there.
(27) Judith Kirk, February 12, 2019 8:50 PM
So well written and well put.
Thank you for such a well written and timely article! I've posted it on FB
(26) Dr. Donna, February 12, 2019 8:36 PM
We keep quiet
Blacks speak up against racism. We as Jews don't.
Obama spoke out against fraternity boys who were heavily drinking and singing a racist song. He was silent about Jewish college students being harassed. We were silent, too and accepted his double-standard.
When we speak up, perhaps we, too, will be heard.
(25) David Perlow, February 12, 2019 8:33 PM
Israel
Over the past 7 years, this website has really done a great job of sharing the amount of Anti Semitism in the world. Maybe all these slaps in the face keep happening to wake us all up and move to Israel..
(24) Anonymous, February 12, 2019 8:10 PM
Northam is a real racist
Gov. Northam is a real racist. There's a Youtube video of him refusing to acknowledge or shake hands with a black man sitting right next to him.
(23) Joseph, February 12, 2019 7:56 PM
A Spiritual Problem
From my point of view , what has turned this world into a complete mess , where people are rather religious than spiritual. I have been all my life a religious person trying to be a good person , but most of the time I was failing, because I didn’t know that to change the world I have to change my world first.Everthing changed when I decided to look inside myself and change all the bad habits that were causing a lot of damage to myself, but no only that I was also affecting the people around me ,even my dear family. If we all understand this principle and apply in our daily lifes I can guarantee you that the world would be different. We have to remove all the rubbish we have inside ourselves and with a clean heart and mind full of love for the mighty God then we can learn have to love our neighbor. It is not about information, it is about transformation. If we all could understand this spiritual rule, the world would so different.
Kevin, February 13, 2019 4:26 AM
Well said Joseph
I have found the same to be true in my life also. One person can not change the World but, we can take care of our own little corner. A little love can go a long way. This World is getting near the breaking point. Bad is Good-Good is Bad. Messiah is coming soon, today? 5 years? It is soon. It can't keep going on like it is.
(22) Anonymous, February 12, 2019 7:31 PM
UK is little different
Here in the UK we have to look at a picture in the press of a Member of Parliament having police protection at the Labour Party Conference due to fears for her personal safety. Members of the Jewish Community prominent or not are the subject of vile online and verbal abuse. Antisemitic attacks are at the highest recorded level. This of course does not include unreported incidents. Only a few days ago a cemetery in Manchester was desecrated. This does not of course include the verbal and sometimes physical attacks on Jewish students in universities. This extends to even the the most respected establishments such as Oxford and Cambridge.
(21) Sheryl Siegel, February 12, 2019 7:18 PM
Silence of Jewish Leadership
Astute, clear, compelling. Why isn’t Jewish leadership incensed as they are rightly when it comes to racism?
(20) me, February 12, 2019 7:14 PM
because more black voters than jews
sadly democratic politicians look at the heavy black voter numbers compared to the smaller Jewish population. And many afican americans are moslem or extra sensitive to Any criticism of fellow african americans even stubbornly rabidly Anti Semitic ones!
(19) Boca mom, February 12, 2019 5:25 PM
Why? To remind us
Remember that the real 'why' is because G-d rules this world and sometimes he sends these people to remind us that we should turn back to him and pray because we just blend in and forget to acknowledge the one who gave us life, and gave us the Torah to help us have better lives. If our response to the haters every time would be to turn back to G-d, we would fear less, and if enough of us take that direction, it will save us all.
(18) Peter, February 12, 2019 5:10 PM
What will it take for Jews to stop voting for Democrats?
If % of Jews voting for Democrats drops below 50%, Democrats will stop taking Jewish vote for granted. Meanwhile, Republicans will see that Jewish vote may help in a state like Florida or maybe even in NY.
Eli, February 12, 2019 7:01 PM
Not completely taken for granted
The swift condemnation from Pelosi and Schumer over Omar's anti-semitism shows Democrats don't take completely Jews for granted. Unfortunately, the appointment of the pro-BDS Omar to the Foreign Relations Committee reveals that the radical left is firmly in control of the party. The Dems will keep Florida's elderly Jews pacified just enough so they don't bolt en masse. As their numbers diminish though they won't even feel the need to do that. That's when things will get scary.
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 8:34 PM
Not good enough.
Steve King was removed from every committee he served on because of his supposedly racist statements. I'm sorry, their condemnation isn't good enough. Especially since it's going to keep happening. She's a Jew hater. She's not going to change.
(17) Michael Schooler, February 12, 2019 4:27 PM
Right On!
Rabbi, your remarks reflect exactly the issue with current politics in this regard and that is the idea that only one particular race, color, or creed is being discriminated against. We are all God's children and each of us deserves the same consideration as the other. No particular type of life matters more than the other. Consider the contradiction of stating that only one group is the object of discrimination and none others matter. Unconditional love is the answer and anything other than that must be considered the opposite. Thank you. Mjs
(16) Francisco López, February 12, 2019 4:25 PM
Breve apunte sobre Inmigración y Convivencia
Si hay un pueblo pionero que refleja en si mismo las reacciones del comportamiento humano ante los fenómenos migratorios, creo que podría ser Israel. Desde su llegada a Egipto hasta el destierro en Babilonia y su posterior diáspora por todo el mundo podría considerarse el pueblo pionero en habitar territorios y convivir con culturas que, en principio le son extrañas. Ante eso enfrentamos unos comportamientos muy dispares de las poblaciones autóctonas y a los que no voy a referirme, por ya conocidos pero que, en gran parte son una muestra extrapolable hasta hoy del comportamiento de la sociedad ante la presencia de seres humanos “diferentes”. Y me van a permitir esa palabra porque solo en ella creo que es donde radican los problemas de convivencia.“El ser humano fue creado en conflicto” Tal como nos dicen las Escrituras. El ser humano, en general lleva mal todo lo que no es como él mismo. Lo que es “diferente”. Puede tolerarlo, pero su comportamiento ante la diversidad es de conflicto y, por cierto, no lo trata de la misma manera individual que colectivamente. Este matiz comprende desde el extranjero al vecino de escalera, e incluso hasta tu mismo hermano. Tenemos rechazo emocional ante lo desconocido, ante la diversidad. ante lo que "no es como yo". El "Yo" es la referencia comparativa para todo. La leyenda de la convivencia pacífica de las tres culturas en Sefarad ,parece ser solo leyenda. La inmigración es algo con lo que hay que convivir pero su total asimilación y tolerancia llevará tiempo, es una cuestión de evolución del mismo ser humano, y por tanto del comportamiento de la sociedad ante ello. Es la asunción por cada uno de nosotros de que quien viene a nuestro país debería ser para convivir en paz, trabajar y contribuir a su progreso y a cambio, no solo se puede recibir un salario, sino también un reconocimiento de sus culturas, costumbres, de su religión de su “ser humano” hasta su total integración.
(15) morris, February 12, 2019 4:07 PM
Hypocrisy
Mallory was proud to post a photo of herself with Farrakhan on Instagram that was captioned “Thank God this man is still alive and doing well. He is definitely the GOAT- the Greatest of All Time because of what he’s done in Black communities.” Hitler revived Germany's economy and Mussolini made the trains run on time. Does that remove the stain?
(14) Anonymous, February 12, 2019 3:41 PM
Thank you -
Here is a link to Farrakhan's upcoming speaking engagement at the United Airlines Center - how can the airline lend their name to a place that hosts such unbridled hatred? https://www.unitedcenter.com/events/2019/02/17/saviours-day/
I urge readers to voice their opinion to United Airlines.
(13) Anonymous, February 12, 2019 3:38 PM
Incorrect to Incorrect To Pit Two Decadent Forms Of Hate Against Each Other
Each group can find centuries and/or millennia of it being accepted in society, a part of it or it " receiving a pass". That is the insidious nature of hate.
(12) Canuck, February 12, 2019 3:30 PM
It's because of the Left-Liberal-Politically-Correct definition of racism.
The vast majority of N. American Jews, being Ashkenazi, are white. And according to the Left-Liberal-Politically-Correct doctrine, whites cannot be victims of racism. They can only be racists, It's as simple as that.
Dineka Davis, May 9, 2019 8:29 PM
The definition is not wrong
Judaism is not a race therefore no racism. Racism is prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior. I am tired of people trying to change the meaning of the word racism.
(11) Ken, February 12, 2019 3:19 PM
Jews support Democrats for odd reason
She relayed her true feelings about Jews and Israel. Her apology is hollow and only done because she was coerced by political advisers. Democrats get overwhelming support from Jews for some unknown reasons. They forget that FDR turned away the St. Louis and sent them back to die in concentration camps. Joseph Kennedy, JFK's father, was a supporter of Hitler, one of the reasons he was shipped off to Europe during the election campaign. We can't allow bigots and hate mongers to get away with anti-semetic remarks. Don't let it get swept under the rug. Why blacks don't support Jews is also baffling. Look at the support they provided during freedom marches even to the extent of giving up their lives to help them achieve equal rights. This muslim is on the Foreign Affairs committee which does not bode well for Israel.
(10) Beth, February 12, 2019 3:12 PM
Intersectionality
While everything you said is accurate there has been a shift with the Democrat party with respect to their position on Jews and Israel. Jews are no longer seen as a protected class on the scales of intersectionality. For that matter, they are now only slightly higher than white men.
The last generation has been taught Israel is an apartheid state and we are now seeing its fruits. It is a disturbing development.
(9) Allen Aigen, February 12, 2019 3:12 PM
Oppressed vs oppressors, Palestinians vs. Israelis?
The "Progressive" wing of the Left use a simple dichotomy--oppressed people and oppressors. They will always support the oppressed against the oppressors, no matter how complicated the relationship really is. Palestinians convinced the world that they are the oppressed, and that the Jews (Israelis, to be polite) are the oppressors. The world's media eagerly parrots them.
(8) Dr Larry P Bleier, February 12, 2019 2:52 PM
Anti-semitism is a form of scapegoat thinking
Wonderful article. Hatred and Anti-semitism is a way of not looking inward to deal with one's negation regarding one's unhappiness and anxiety and depression. Hatred and Anti-semitism and other forms of racism can mask one's self-image and help raise one's self-worth inappropriately. Hence, it continues
(7) marilyn blum, February 12, 2019 2:50 PM
Good Read
Thoughtful and necessary article. Thank you.
(6) Michele, February 12, 2019 2:50 PM
Agree but what about our racism
While I agree with everything the rabbi wrote, my concern is a little different. As Jews, we have no problem crying foul when antiSemitism goes unacknowledged. However, we don't spend nearly enough time addressing our own racism. It is commonplace for teachers to espouse racist sentiments and use racial slurs. My children have been ostracized for challenging peers on their racism. People wearing black face or dressing as a "cleaning woman" for Purim is not uncommon. I have actually had a frum CEO years ago tell me he would never hire a Black person to be CFO. So while antiSemitism is completely alarming and definitely left unchallenged, I would really like.our community to work on our own prejudices.
Anonymous, February 12, 2019 3:55 PM
Inclusive
Isn't the inclusivity of the Jewish religion, in essence, some form of discrimination as well? And doesn't that count, in more or lesser degree, for many religions?
Nina Kotek, February 13, 2019 10:50 AM
Inclusivity
Who lives at your house? Your family? Why not as many homeless as you can fit? When you eat at a restaurant, do you pay for your table or the whole restaurant?
Of course you include your family in benefits that are not for the whole community, and your community in things that you wouldn't include the whole world in. That is the meaning of social ties.
Having said that, Jews are renowned for the strength of their ties to other Jews, as well as for their charity and contributions to the wider society ( just read that Jews contribute 50% of Democratic Party financing, being around 2% of the population).
Jews "discriminate" as in "make a separation" between themselves and non-Jews, but benefit "out-groups" out of all proportion to their size ( for example, the Civil Rights struggle ).
Anonymous, February 12, 2019 9:25 PM
To commenter #6 Michele
Re: The comment made by the frum CEO. As odious as it may sound, it is not a surprising remark. I once read that managers hire people who they feel would fit into their culture. As long as he did not put this statement in writing, nobody can bring any type of charge against him.
Lea, February 14, 2019 6:05 PM
We need to be a light onto the nations
Thank you Michele for this comment. How can we expect others to abstain from prejudice if we do not do the same? Are we not to be a role model to the other nations? We need to be aware of our prejudice and work on ourselves to not judge others by their religion, color of their skin, etc. Like Michele I see it frequently in the Frum world , it needs to stop.
(5) Anonymous, February 12, 2019 1:11 PM
Skin color
I feel the difference is skin color. Jews do not walk around-for the most part- with their identity showing as visiblly as Blacks. After a antisemetic incident, Jews can still blend in with the White world. Jews “bounce back” seemingly quicker than people of color after antisemetic incidents. With this being said, Farrakhan is the exception as he is so overtly antisemetic that it is a shame that Blacks associate with him. For instance, he was a large presence at Aretha Franklin’s funeral. But what backlash can happen to her, she’s dead. If Jews protest, visually it just looks like Whites demonstrating against Blacks which looks racist.
(4) Yehuda Ben Moshe, February 12, 2019 1:06 PM
What is the answer to the question?
Racism and Anti-Semitism: Why the Disparate Response?
So what is the answer to that question?
Anonymous, February 12, 2019 2:37 PM
Part of the answer
Jews are an easier target. There are fewer of them and generally, they don't fight back, at east with violence. Some of them even join forces with Jew haters.
(3) Anonymous, February 11, 2019 4:17 PM
Since when is the term Arab considered to be wrong?
Israel is a Democratic nation, yet the media in the U.S. always seems to be maligning this country. I have read quite a few examples of Arabs and Israelis working side by side.
(2) Anonymous, February 11, 2019 3:32 PM
Your last sentence says it ALL!
Historically Jews have stood up and marched along side of Black people. Unfortunately, Black people have not done the same for us. Sadly, there is nothing new under the sun. The silver lining here is that social media is calling attention to the heinous remarks made by the individuals in Rabbi Blech's article.
(1) Jeff, February 11, 2019 3:26 PM
Absolutely
Absolutely, anyone who is truly against prejudice and discrimination must, by definition, oppose discrimination against ALL groups. That, of course, includes discrimination against Palestinians -- the people that Aish.com prejudicially prefers to call "Arabs," to imply they have no connection to this land. And discrimination against the Palestinians living under Israeli rule includes picking them up in the middle of the night and convicting them in kangaroo military courts; preventing them from raising monuments on the sites of Israeli massacres; massacring them in the first place; stealing their land; and, of course, denying those in Judea & Samaria the same right as their Jewish neighbours to vote for their rulers in the Knesset. I assume Blech will come out against that discrimination in his next column?
David Sherman, February 11, 2019 9:01 PM
Palestinians have only themselves to blame
The essence of the "Palestinian" problem is that the Palestinians don't want a state unless they can destroy Israel in the process. They were offered a state many times but refuse to accept Israel's existence and continue to seek to destroy is. Israel cannot help but continue to control all of Judea and Samaria since we saw what happened when we gave up control of Gaza: genocidal Islamic Hamastan. So Israel must continue as is until there is a Palestinian polity ready for REAL peace and tolerance, and not a racist one which prohibits any Jews from living in the land.
Jeff, February 13, 2019 3:03 PM
Drop the tired cliches
What are you talking about?? As every Israeli politician will tell you, up to and including Netanyahu, there will NEVER be a fully independent Palestinian state. "They were offered a state many times"?? They're not being offered a fully independent state now, Netanyahu has ruled that out. Look at the map of one-state Israel:
newyorker.com/news/news-desk/the-map-of-israeli-settlements-that-shocked-barack-obama
No one thinks those few white dots will ever be a state. They are Bantustans in every sense of the word. Greater Israel will remain a single state forever. Now the struggle is to make it a democracy. As former Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak said as long ago as 2010: “As long as in this territory west of the Jordan River there is only one political entity called Israel, it is going to be either non-Jewish, or non-democratic. If this bloc of millions of Palestinians cannot vote, that will be an apartheid state.”
You say "Israel cannot help but control all of Judea and Samaria" indefinitely, not just half a century. Then if you're a democrat, let everyone in Judea & Samaria, not just whites, vote for their rulers in the Knesset.
Nina Kotek, February 12, 2019 11:06 AM
"Arabs" is not prejudiced
They were always called Arabs until they invented a Palestinian nation. Some of those inventing it were Egyptians or Jordanians. Some Arab Israeli citizens call themselves Palestinian Israelis now, most do not. Their political parties recently formed the Joint Arab List-their words, not mine.
Anonymous, February 12, 2019 1:51 PM
Please read the book From Time Immemorial
Please read the book From Time Immemorial. It is a very well researched historical nonfiction document about the "Palestinian Problem". I am an American and Israel is a light unto the nations in the just and compassionate way it treats people of all faiths. The media almost never mentions the fact that the so called Palestinians were under Jordanian and Egyptian rule until 1967 and that when Israel took over administration of those areas, the infant mortality rate dropped way down and the life expectancy of Palestinian went way up per the data of the WHO (World Health Organization). This is because of the water and sanitation projects of the Israeli nation and people.
Recently, when Abbas was very ill, Israel sent a doctor to him to treat his pneumonia . When Iran had an earthquake years ago, yes, even as Iran's crowds said "death to Israel," Israel offered aide during the earthquake.
Israel is an amazing nation trying to set a most compassionate example in a part of the world where cruelty among the Islamic nations is commonplace.
Anonymous, February 13, 2019 3:08 PM
Let's accept everything you say ...
Let's accept everything you say, that Israel is wonderful and there's no such thing as "Palestinians." Then wonderful Israel surely will embrace its own democratic principles and grant the vote to all those non-Jewish, supposedly non-"Palestinian" human beings in Judea and Samaria?
Anonymous, February 15, 2019 8:29 AM
You raise a very good point
To the commenter who has the same name.."Anonymous" ...that most people have at this discussion (dated feb 13 2019 3:08 PM)
you raise perhaps the key point in the dilemma. How can Israel maintain its democratic principles, and maintain its status as the Jewish state of Israel
if it gives the vote to the people currently in Judea and Samaria.
There are historians who would argue that the "Palestinians" already have their own designated nation....it is currently called Jordan. Perhaps that is where they should go. Did you know that before 1967, people living in the "West Bank" called themselves Jordanians? Yes it is true. They flew the Jordanian flag. Then 1967 happened, and suddenly they called themselves "Palestinians"..all of a sudden!! …. and they developed their own flag. Look at the two flags, of Jordan and the "Palestinians". They are almost the same except for one or two minor changes.