CONFRONTING
MARVIN SCHLANGER
CONFRONTING ANTISEMITISM
What Antisemitism Is Antisemitism is one of the oldest and most adaptable forms of hatred in the world. It is often described as "the world's longest hatred:' but that phrase only tells part of the story. Antisemitism is not simply a prejudice or a dislike of a group. It is a conspiracy theory about Jews, one that casts Jews as secretly powerful, uniquely dangerous, or funda mentally different from the rest of society. 1
"In the Middle Ages, when the bubonic plague was destroying Europe, Jews were wrongly accused of spreading it by poisoning drinking wells:' Source: History of Antisemitism. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Unlike other forms of bigotry, which often target people seen as inferior, antisemitism often portrays Jews as simultaneously too powerful and too weak, insiders and outsiders, oppressors and victims, depending on the needs of the moment. 2 It is a flexible ideology that shapes itself around a society's greatest fears. 3 If a society fears wealth, Jews are accused of controlling banks. If it fears disease, Jews are blamed for spreading it. If it fears disloyalty, Jews are accused of undermining nations from within. 12
Confronting Antisemitism is a call to courage, clarity, and community.
In a time of rising antisemitism, this guide offers ten practical actions, grounded in Jewish life, civic responsibility, and shared accountability, to help individuals and communities respond with strength rather than silence. There is no single way to act. There is, however, a responsibility to act. About the Author Marvin Schlanger is a retired executive who spent more than 50 years in leadership roles in the energy and logistics industries. A passionate Zionist, Marv has lectured on Israel, antisemitism, and media bias against Israel. He can be found on Facebook, where he curates his blog in support of Israel and the Jewish people, You Just Can’t Make This Stuff Up! Marv and his wife, Eva, grew up in the Weequahic section of Newark, New Jersey, and now reside in Florida, where they are active members of the Palm Beach County Jewish community. Marv also serves on the National Board of Jewish National Fund (JNF)-USA, and Eva serves on the JNF Florida Board. Produced in collaboration with the Palm Beach Center to Combat Antisemitism, Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County