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By Steve Feldman, Greater Philadelphia ZOA Executive Director
(DECEMBER 7, 2022 / PHILADELPHIA JEWISH EXPONENT) As any coach, athlete or sports enthusiast knows, if one is not even on the playing field, there is no chance of winning. Even if one’s opponent falls flat on their faces, the best one can hope for is a tie if you are not at least present.
Philadelphia’s government hosted an event and issued a proclamation on November 29 that places the city as a participant in an international observance created to delegitimize Israel and Jewish rights. Philadelphia also endorsed Arab violence against Jews via a promotional poster that featured three clenched fists and three Palestine Liberation Organization flags.
The event, proclamation, remarks by a City Council member at the event and the bellicose poster serve as reminders that the Jewish community and supporters of Israel need to challenge our enemies and their enablers — to be on the metaphorical playing field — although it is no game.
Today for Jews in America, physical and emotional well-being are jeopardized; the ability to freely observe our religion is at stake in some cases, as is our right to freedom of speech/expression such as in support of Israel and Zionism. Rampant attacks against Jews and Jewish institutions, and the incessant incitement of hatred and resentment against Jews have gotten us to this juncture. Our future here rests on what the Jewish people and our friends and allies do in response to the attacks and intimidation, as well as proactively.
Jewish persons today in America who wear garb or a symbol that easily identifies that person as Jewish are being violently attacked; many are afraid to hold an Israeli flag or wear an “I support Israel” shirt or hat — Jewish or not — for fear of attack; synagogues, other Jewish institutions and Jewish events require unprecedented security. Those who are determined to harm Jews have been emboldened.
They are emboldened by celebrities who sow resentment and hatred of us.
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