To be confident in our Jewish identity means to embrace every aspect of it – our rich cultural heritage, our diverse traditions and our shared history. It means celebrating Shabbat with joy, wearing our kippot and Magen David necklaces without fear, placing a mezuzah on our doorposts and educating others about the beauty and complexity of our identity. Confidence in who we are is a form of resistance against those who seek to diminish us.
But pride alone is not enough. We must have the courage to speak out against antisemitism whenever and wherever we encounter it. Silence in the face of hatred allows it to fester. By confronting antisemitism head-on, we challenge its normalisation and force society to reckon with its presence and impact.
Education is crucial in fostering this confidence. Knowledge empowers us to counteract ignorance and misinformation. By learning about our history, our contributions to the betterment of the world, and the roots of antisemitism, we arm ourselves with the tools to combat hatred. Jewish education should encompass the vast spectrum of Jewish thought, culture, and achievements. Our heritage is a tapestry of remarkable achievements that deserve recognition and celebration.
Moreover, being confident in our Jewish identity involves fostering a strong sense of community. Antisemitism thrives on isolation and division. By building and nurturing strong Jewish communities, we create networks of support and solidarity. These connections are vital in reinforcing our identity and providing a united front against antisemitism.
Social media, while often a breeding ground for hate speech, can also be a powerful tool for promoting Jewish unity, pride and combating antisemitism.
By sharing our stories, highlighting our achievements, and challenging antisemitic narratives, we can reclaim our story and assert our identity on a global stage.
Jewish leaders, whether in religious, political or cultural spheres, have the responsibility to set an example and inspire others. Leadership is essential to fostering Jewish confidence. By being vocal and unapologetic about our Jewish identity, we pave the way for others to do the same.
In his Hope Speech in 1978, Harvey Milk, the American gay and Jewish civil rights leader, strongly advocated for every gay person to come out to their immediate family, relatives, friends, colleagues - and even the people they encounter in their daily lives. He believed that by doing so, “they would realise that we are indeed everywhere” and then “every myth, every lie, every innuendo will be destroyed once and for all.”
That is true for every Jew today, too. We must actively “come out” as Jewish every day. The importance of being confident in our Jewish identity when facing antisemitism cannot be overstated. It is a declaration of our resilience, our pride, and our unyielding spirit.
By embracing our identity with confidence, we honour the memory of those who came before us and lay a solid foundation for those who will come after us.
