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THREAD. A much-needed discussion as we enter what has already begun to be an exhausting week regarding the topic of antisemitism.
Antisemitism takes many different forms, be it conspiracy theories holding Jews responsible for the world's ills, accusations stating Jews hold dual loyalties, Holocaust denial/revisionism, and the infamous blood libel.
Throughout recent history, antisemitism has existed across the political spectrum, whether on the right (American white-nationalism, the emergence of far-right parties in Europe, etc.) or the left (the Soviet Doctor's Plot, the 1968 Polish political crisis, etc.)
On both the right and the left, antisemites use Israel and Zionism as cover for their antisemitism. For folks on the right, this typically sounds like: "I can't be antisemitic because I support Israel." On the left: "I'm not antisemitic because I only hate Israel, not Jews."
Fact: while criticism of Israel isn't inherently antisemitic, the lines can be easily blurred through the use of antisemitic tropes or through holding Israel to standards not applied to other countries.
Also a fact: You can be pro-Israel and still be antisemitic. Some of the most virulent antisemites claim to be supporters of Israel (i.e. American white nationalists like Richard Spencer).
Antisemitism is often weaponized by political activists. Yes, it's easy to call out antisemitism when it's on the side of your political opponent, but antisemitism should be called out WHEREVER it rears its ugly head, even when it's not convenient.
Fighting antisemitism isn't easy- it's hard. And Jewish community organizations like @JSpaceCanada are here to help train and provide resources for those willing to take on this important struggle.
While not perfect, the @TheIHRA has produced one of the most commonly accepted definitions of antisemitism. Take a read here: holocaustremembrance.com/working-defini…
Antisemitism, like Islamophobia, homophobia, and other forms of bigotry, requires education to ensure its eradication. In the era of Quebec City, Pittsburgh, and Christchurch, we cannot afford to be complacent.
