Recognizing Distinct Struggles: Embracing Empathy and Solidarity in the Fight Against Hate

Dear Community,

Recently, I've noticed more Jewish people and others outside of the Jewish community who are not Black, comparing their struggles to those of Black Americans. In a now-deleted post, a major Jewish organization drew parallels between antisemitism and the experiences of Black Americans and other marginalized groups in America. Myself and others find this frustrating and concerning.

In response, I shared the following thoughts in a Thread. I emphasize the importance of recognizing the distinct experiences of Black and Jewish communities and the harm that can arise from oversimplified comparisons. I invite you to read with an open heart and mind as we work together to build a more inclusive and compassionate world.

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Photo by Derick McKinney on Unsplash

Speaking with love and respect to my fellow American Jews who are not Black or brown:

I understand the deep pain and fear that arises when facing antisemitism. The threat of violence is a terrifying reality, and for many, these are challenging and scary times. However, I urge you to reconsider using comparisons that equate the Jewish experience with that of Black Americans.

Why Such Comparisons are Harmful:

Minimizing the Black Experience:

Anti-Black racism is deeply rooted in centuries of slavery, segregation, and ongoing systemic oppression. It's a pervasive and insidious force that impacts every aspect of Black lives. Equating this with instances of antisemitism, while painful, minimizes the unique and profound suffering endured by Black individuals and communities. The Torah teaches us in Deuteronomy 16:20,

צֶ֥דֶק צֶ֖דֶק תִּרְדֹּ֑ף לְמַ֤עַן תִּֽחְיֶה֙

 "Justice, justice shall you pursue." Pursuing justice requires recognizing the distinct injustices faced by different communities.

Oversimplifying Complex Issues:

Both antisemitism and anti-Black racism are abhorrent, but they operate differently due to historical and societal contexts. By drawing simplistic parallels, we risk obscuring the nuances and complexities of each issue. This hinders our ability to address them effectively. As it is said in Pirkei Avot 2:4:

וְאַל תָּדִין אֶת חֲבֵרְךָ עַד שֶׁתַּגִּיעַ לִמְקוֹמוֹ, וְאַל

 "Do not judge your fellow until you have stood in their place." 

Understanding the full scope of another's experience requires deep empathy and listening.

Perpetuating a Sense of Competition:

The fight against hate should not be a competition for who suffers the most. Focusing on comparisons can inadvertently pit marginalized groups against each other, distracting from the shared goal of dismantling all forms of oppression. Leviticus 19:18 reminds us to:

וְאָֽהַבְתָּ֥ לְרֵעֲךָ֖ כָּמ֑וֹךָ

 "love your neighbor as yourself." 

This love includes standing together against all forms of hate without diminishing each other's experiences.

Erasing the Particularities of Jewish Oppression and Hatred:

Equating Jewish experiences with those of Black people erases the unique history of Jewish oppression, including centuries of exile, pogroms, and the Holocaust. Each instance of oppression is unique and demands specific attention. Remembering our unique history helps us honor the distinct paths each community has walked.

A Better Way Forward:

Empathy and Solidarity:

We can acknowledge our collective pain without comparison. As a diverse Jewish community that includes Black and brown Jews, we must stand together against antisemitism while also recognizing that the Black experience is distinct and requires its own specific understanding and action.

Education and Dialogue:

Let's engage in open and honest conversations about the historical and systemic nature of both antisemitism and racism. By listening to and learning from Black and brown Jewish voices, we can highlight the intersectionality of these issues. Black and brown Jews, who understand both experiences intimately, can offer invaluable insights into how these forms of oppression intersect and impact lives. Proverbs 18:15 says,

לֵ֣ב נָ֭בוֹן יִקְנֶה־דָּ֑עַת וְאֹ֥זֶן חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים תְּבַקֶּשׁ־דָּֽעַת

"The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out." Seeking knowledge from one another is a step toward true understanding and justice

Coalition Building:

Building bridges between communities is crucial, focusing on our shared values and goals. By working together, we can create a powerful force for change that combats all forms of hate and discrimination. Without this unity, different groups are often pitted against each other instead of collaborating to combat hate. Here, Black and brown voices are also crucial, providing essential perspectives and fostering a more inclusive and effective movement.

Remembering Our Shared History:

As Jews, we understand the historical pain of oppression and the present reality of antisemitism. We know the importance of fighting for justice. We can draw on our tradition to stand in solidarity with all who face hate and bias, while honoring the unique struggles faced by each community, including our own.

Closing:

My intention is not to diminish the pain of antisemitism. Antisemitism is a real and urgent issue that deserves our full attention. However, by avoiding simplistic comparisons and embracing empathy, education, and solidarity, I believe we can build a stronger, more unified movement for combating hate. I am hopeful that we can move towards creating a world where everyone is safe and free to express their identity without fear.

This ordination season, we saw four more Black Jewish clergy ordained. There may be more, but these are the ones I am aware of. Congratulations to Cantor Jenni Asher, Rabbis Kelly Whitehead, Shoshana Nambi and Dr. Koach Baruch Frazier.