Racism, Antisemitism, and the Intersectionality of Oppression
In understanding complex social systems like racism, it's essential to consider various perspectives. Take, for instance, the analogy of a baby exposed to a steady rain of biases. As infants, we are born into a world devoid of prejudices. However, as we mature, we inadvertently absorb societal stereotypes, particularly those related to marginalized communities such as Black individuals. These stereotypes perpetually bombard us, and although we may attempt to shake them off, their recurrence is undeniable. To fully grasp these biases, it's essential to understand their origins and definitions.
First, let's define racism. Racism is the belief that certain races are inherently superior to others, and it is often used to justify the mistreatment and discrimination of people based on their race. Racism can take many forms, from individual acts of prejudice to systemic policies and practices that create and maintain racial inequalities. Racism is not only harmful to the individuals who experience it but also has a detrimental impact on society as a whole.
Antisemitism, on the other hand, is the discrimination or prejudice against Jews. Antisemitism is the oldest hatred and has been used to oppress Jews for centuries. It can take many forms, from overt violence to more subtle, everyday behaviors. As Cherie Brown points out in her essay, three guidelines can be used to help determine when something is antisemitic:
Are Jews being singled out for blame?
Are Jews being isolated from other people?
Are progressive movements being diverted from their work by confusion about antisemitism?
The societal structure in the U.S. has, unfortunately, ingrained the idea that whiteness is the norm. Thus, racism, along with other systemic prejudices like sexism, homophobia, and antisemitism, becomes a perpetually challenging issue to tackle.
While the term racism is intrinsically linked with heinous acts by groups such as American slavery, the Klu Klux Klan, and lynching, all are excellent examples but far too narrow and show a lack of understanding that racism has evolved. Racism today, thank God, looks very different than during my grandparents' time. Also, narrowing racism to the most heinous acts of our history prevents many from recognizing forms of racial bias that persist daily.
Jews of Color (JOC) often navigate a nuanced intersection of racism and antisemitism, especially within Jewish communities. Although public spaces commonly serve as grounds for racial bias, it's alarming that even within Jewish environments, we often face questions undermining our Jewish identity. This othering within our community sheds light on the intricate web of biases and the layers of discrimination people can face based on their intersecting identities.
Delving deeper into antisemitism, its rise in the U.S. remains a significant concern. While large-scale violent incidents unmistakably showcase antisemitism, daily oppressive behaviors against Jews, such as:
Blaming Jews for all the ills of society.
Isolating Jews from other people.
Excluding Jews from coalitions or organizations.
Using trigger words that are antisemitic in nature.
Making false or harmful statements about Jews.
Threatening or committing violence against Jews.
These behaviors serve as precursors to these overt acts. Historically, Jews have often been scapegoated during times of societal unrest, becoming convenient targets for society's woes. This diversionary tactic, intended to turn attention away from real societal issues, has a long-standing history.
The roots of antisemitism can be traced back to the religious persecution of Jews, who were held responsible for Jesus' death. This belief, transported to America from Europe, morphed over time and found footing in various socio-political narratives. Today, antisemitism finds itself manipulated by both right-wing and left-wing ideologies.
On the one hand, the right-wing harness antisemitism as a central belief viewing Jews as distinct from the vision of a white Christian nation. Left-wing antisemitism in the United States is often expressed in support of the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination. It is also less central to left-wing ideology, which focuses on economic inequality and social justice issues. However, it is still important to confront left-wing antisemitism, as it can be harmful to Jewish people and contribute to a climate of intolerance.
As Jews of Color, we inhabit a unique crossroads of identity where both racism and antisemitism converge. Such intersectionality births distinct prejudices, including skepticism surrounding our Jewish identity or denial of the possibility of being Jewish due to race or ethnicity.
In conclusion, understanding racism and antisemitism requires us to acknowledge their evolution and the inherent structures that perpetuate these prejudices. Embracing empathy, love, and unity, as inspired by the teachings of Torah, could guide us in recognizing the Divine spark in each individual. Through collective efforts in dismantling oppressive systems and truly understanding each other, we might get closer to realizing an inclusive society grounded in justice, fairness, and kindness for all.
Should be widely published!!
This was so insightful. Thank you.