Codifying standard definitions is counterproductive
There is a saying among Jews: “Two Jews, three opinions,” which certainly applies to one common definition of anti-Semitism, which applies to both Jews and non-Jews. (‘War and the Battle Over Its Words’, page A1, January 28). For example, as defined by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, people who believe that Palestinians are entitled to the same political and human rights as Jews are anti-Semitic because this belief contradicts the supremacy of the Jewish state. may be considered a person. Of course, those who consider this belief anti-Semitic are entitled to their opinion, but they do not have the right to legally silence those who disagree.
Moreover, many of those most in favor of using the IHRA definition to enact policy were not special friends with Jews in other contexts. Rather, they are using this opportunity to thrust another dagger into what they call “wokeism.”
Yes, anti-Semitism is serious and a growing concern. The same goes for Islamophobia. But let’s distinguish between being a victim of hate speech and having to hear personally harrowing opinions. As North Carolina Republican Rep. Virginia Foxx characterizes the IHRA definition, codifying anti-Semitism according to the so-called “gold standard” is counterproductive and undermines the fundamental right to free speech. It is a violation.
elizabeth zoob
roslindale
There are double standards and there are double standards.
If you remember, Hebrew National’s great hot dog ad from 1965, which described their filler-free hot dog, said, “We answer to a higher authority.” , which has humorously evoked double standards and, at times, been criticized. It was applied in a less favorable way to my people. Applying this standard to deny Jews their right to self-determination, or to impose the notion that Jewish college students at Harvard and other schools should be thick-skinned, is beyond ridiculous and anti-Semitic. It’s a principle.
When it comes to questioning the right to self-determination, I prefer John Lennon’s aspirational words: ” But until that Messianic day applies to all peoples, it is anti-Semitic to impose different standards on the Jewish state.
neil leifer
brookline