Antisemitism has been called the world’s oldest form of hatred. Throughout history, it has consistently reared its ugly head as Jewish people have been persecuted and driven from their homes because of their religion. Notable examples include the Holocaust in Nazi Germany during World War II, and the Spanish Inquisition from 1478-1834. While these examples are from the past, acts of hatred toward Jewish people still exist in this community today.
The Oxford dictionary defines antisemitism as “hostility to or prejudice against Jewish people.” But for Jewish individuals, the definition can feel far less abstract. Over the past year alone, the school has been hit with antisemitic actions on several occasions. There have been multiple instances of swastikas, symbolizing the Nazi Regime in Germany, drawn on desks and lockers. In August, graffiti on the school’s exterior alarmed the large Jewish population and its allies here.
In the aftermath of these occurrences, Jewish individuals can be left feeling isolated and hurt. “These antisemitic instances certainly make Jewish students feel unsafe and uncomfortable. It doesn’t promote a caring environment but rather makes people feel like they’re excluded and hated,” senior Paul Weiner said.
The consequences of antisemitic acts in school can have far reaching implications on all students. In addition to making Jewish individuals uncomfortable, it sets an unacceptable standard in the community. “I think any acts of hatred, like racism for example, can really make people feel unloved and unwelcome. Especially in an environment where they might not be the majority population,” sophomore Manasa Iyer said.
Teachers share these concerns for all groups. “I think any act of hatred is scary for every group because if it is done to one group then it means it can more easily be done to others,” choral director Keith Schwartz said.
Although antisemitism, like other forms of hatred, has remained prevalent for thousands of years, there is hope in combating it through education. “I think we should foster a more welcoming environment where people learn about different cultures, backgrounds and races so we can appreciate each other for our diversity. I think slideshow presentations can be good but also when there are religious or cultural events, those are good for learning about others,” Iyer said.
Local organizations like the Jewish Community Relations Council have taken initiative to educate those in the DMV about Jewish life. The Student-to-Student program allows for Jewish teenagers to speak about their culture, lifestyle and level of observation directly to other teens. This helps students feel more comfortable and understanding of the differences between themselves and their Jewish classmates.
Others suggest a more direct approach to combating acts of hatred. “I think that stopping it when you hear it is important. Sometimes it starts out as just a comment but if you don’t address it from that point of view then people are going to think it’s OK to do more,” Schwartz said.
Regardless of the approach to combating antisemitism and other forms of hatred in this community, the key is understanding. “I think everyone can learn to respect others’ opinions despite what might be going on in the world. Understanding that someone’s specific background doesn’t define who they are is important to remember,” Iyer said.
