On The Other Hand
Editor — exploring modern JewryAnti-Semitism Drops
Despite what sometimes seems to be the case, anti-Semitism in this country has just reached its lowest level in the 45 years that it has been tracked. That is reason to celebrate. At the same time, anti-Semitic acts of violence do seem to be increasing, which gives one reason for both concern and precautionary measures.
Last week the Anti-Defamation League released its annual survey of American anti-Semitic attitudes. It found that 12 percent of Americans hold such views. Obviously any racism, hatred or bigotry is too much—even though there always be some. Indeed, this represents roughly 30 million Americans – and the mark is much higher amongst African Americans (28 percent) and foreign born Hispanics (35 percent). Interestingly, at all age levels, men are more likely than women to hold anti-Semitic views. Still, in overall numbers, this is a nice drop the 15 percent of 2007 and the now seemingly impossible high mark of 29 percent in 1964.
As ADL National Director Abraham Foxman explained, “just as the good news about the election of an African-American as President has been tempered by the surfacing of racism and conspiratorial thinking in reaction, so too the significant diminution of widespread prejudice against Jews is tempered by the manifestation of violence, conspiracy theories and insensitivities toward them.”
Not surprisingly, education levels have a lot to do with levels of anti-Semitism. That’s why a range of programs – such as nationally with ADL’s World of Difference, and locally with the Jewish foundation sponsored placement of a Jewish educator at the St. Francis Academy – can make a real impact.
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