In recent days, a significant hearing took place in Washington, D.C., addressing the troubling rise of antisemitism globally. This event, titled “Worldwide Persecution of Jews,” was hosted by the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission and featured prominent voices from the Jewish community, including Eric Fusfield from B’nai B’rith International and Marina Rosenberg from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The discussions were timely, given the alarming increase in antisemitic incidents reported worldwide.
Fusfield, who serves as the director of legislative affairs for B’nai B’rith International, expressed deep concerns over the narrative surrounding Israel and its military actions in Gaza. He argued that Hamas’ propaganda has significantly influenced public perception, leading to a dangerous spike in antisemitism. “We’re losing the narrative,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to change the prevailing discourse that often paints Israel in a negative light.
The hearing was not only a platform for sharing experiences and statistics but also a call to action. Fusfield highlighted the importance of education in combating antisemitism and underscored the responsibility of governments to ensure public safety. His remarks echoed a broader sentiment that antisemitism is not merely a Jewish issue but one that threatens the foundational values of free societies everywhere.
Rosenberg, who serves as the vice president for international affairs at the ADL, echoed these sentiments, declaring that the rise of antisemitism is a global emergency requiring a unified response. She argued that discussions about historical Jewish suffering are insufficient. “We need to teach about the living ones,” she asserted, stressing the importance of recognizing the contributions of Jewish communities worldwide.
The gravity of the situation was underscored by Rep. Jerry Nadler, who characterized the recent attacks by Hamas as one of the bloodiest days in Jewish history since the Holocaust. On October 7, 2023, a coordinated assault resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people and the abduction of more than 240 individuals, a tragedy that has reverberated across the globe.
At the hearing, former Congressman Ted Deutch, now the CEO of the American Jewish Committee, emphasized that antisemitism does not only endanger Jewish communities but also undermines the core values that uphold democratic societies. He urged lawmakers to condemn antisemitism unequivocally and publicly, asserting that a strong, united front is essential in the fight against hatred.
Just a day after the hearing, the tragic murder of two Israeli Embassy staffers outside the Capital Jewish Museum brought the issue of antisemitism into sharp focus. Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim were fatally shot during an event, and the suspect reportedly expressed antisemitic sentiments while in custody. This incident has sparked outrage and sorrow within both the Jewish community and broader society, highlighting the urgent need for action against rising antisemitism.
Susan Michael of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem expressed her heartbreak over the loss of Lischinsky and Milgrim, describing them as cherished friends. She emphasized that this senseless act of violence is part of a broader wave of antisemitism that must be confronted with courage and moral clarity. Her poignant remarks resonate with many who are calling for increased awareness and action against hatred in all its forms.
The discussions from the hearing and the subsequent tragedy serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community and the importance of solidarity in confronting hate. As Christians, we are called to stand against all forms of hatred and discrimination, advocating for justice and peace in our communities.
For those interested in learning more about the rise of antisemitism and how to combat it, organizations like the Anti-Defamation League provide valuable resources and insights. You can visit their website for more information on educational initiatives and advocacy efforts: ADL.
As we reflect on these events, let us commit ourselves to fostering understanding, compassion, and respect for all people, standing firmly against the forces that seek to divide us.