When Antisemitism Gets Political

While right-wing antisemitism can be easy to spot, there is a growing phenomenon among some left-wing activists who are promoting antisemitic tropes and stereotypes in the name of social justice. Armed with the assumption that the historically persecuted Jewish minority constitutes a “privileged” group, some social justice movements have begun to institute litmus tests for Jews in left-wing spaces, demanding that they denounce Israel before they can join the fight for other progressive causes.

Big Ideas

1. Antisemitism exists and is increasing both on the political left and right. 
2. Defining one’s identity is a right that all people should have.
3. Woke antisemitism often considers Jews to be white and upholders of white supremacy.

Essential Questions

1. Why does antisemitism exist across the religious and political spectrum?
2. What are the risks when others try to define Jewish identity and antisemitism for Jews?