Antisemitism on the Rise: Lessons from NYC to Israel

Understanding Antisemitism's Resurgence

During my recent trip to New York City, I found myself grappling with two alarming realities that reflect our societal fractures. One was a disconcerting ride in an Uber through Midtown Manhattan, where political rhetoric has stirred a climate increasingly hostile to Jews. The other was a contrasting experience in Jerusalem, where coexistence seems to flourish even amid diverse backgrounds.

“The devil has taken over the world,” my driver, a seemingly ordinary man, declared with alarming conviction. He spoke of a caliphate as the only solution for restoring order, echoing sentiments that felt eerily normalized in today's discourse.

Political Leaders and Their Influence

*Zohran Mamdani*, the newly elected mayor of New York, represents a pivotal change in leadership that many believe signals a troubling shift in the city's civic ethos. His acceptance of extremist views can be seen as an endorsement of a broader societal malaise, one that emboldens individuals to express discriminatory beliefs without reservation.

The normalization of antisemitic ideology can have devastating effects on the Jewish community and others. As my driver shared his worldview, it became evident how political discourse paves the way for public acceptance of such extreme thought. When leaders downplay or excuse hatred, society pays the price. It is not merely rhetoric; it is a dangerous pathway allowing societal values to erode.

A Journey to Jerusalem

After grappling with the unsettling conversations in New York, I arrived in Jerusalem. Within hours of being in the city, my children were playing with Arab children in Liberty Bell Park, highlighting a stark contrast to the tensions I had just witnessed. It was a place where society seemed to embrace diversity through shared experiences.

In Jerusalem, the setting was completely different: “There was no tension. No division. Only families living their lives.” It showcased that coexistence is not merely an ideal but a lived reality for many. This environment stands in stark contrast to what I encountered back home. Young Arab and Israeli teens shared bikes and skateboards at the local park, demonstrating a companionship that defies the prevailing narratives of conflict.

What Lessons Can Be Learned?

Israel presents a complex yet enlightening case study on coexistence. My discussions with a gay Arab-Israeli at the beach in Tel Aviv revealed a layer of personal freedoms that many in the world yearn for but cannot achieve. His story of living authentically in a democratic state is a powerful reminder that diverse identities can thrive together.

Moreover, this juxtaposition of experiences emphasizes a critical question for New York and broader America: Will we stand by as extremism takes root, or will we reclaim our commitment to values that promote freedom and acceptance?

Confronting Extremism

Reflecting on my Uber ride through Manhattan and my weekend in Jerusalem, I cannot stress enough the importance of standing up against antisemitism and all forms of hatred. As the political climate shifts, so too does the landscape of safety for marginalized communities. Our responsibility as citizens is to challenge wrongful narratives and demand accountability from those in power.

I refuse to remain silent. The duty falls upon us to protect future generations from ideologies that threaten to dismantle our freedoms and coexistence.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The choice before New York is stark. It must decide if it will embrace a future shaped by contempt or reaffirm its status as a beacon of moral clarity. We have seen, through the lens of these two cities, how quickly the environment can shift, demanding our vigilance in preserving our core values.

This duality of experience—one of rising hostility and another of hopeful coexistence—compels us to reflect on our roles within society. While one city drifts toward extremism, another displays the potential for a progressive, inclusive future. It is time to choose where we stand.