A Divided Jewish Community in New York Confronts Trauma and Antisemitism

Strategic Insights -

As the war in Gaza comes to an end, Jewish New Yorkers are grappling with complex emotions, ranging from celebration and grief to deep divisions within their community. The past two years have been marked by a surge in antisemitism and a growing rift among friends and family who disagree over the war. Many have found themselves caught between their support for Israel and their empathy for Palestinian suffering, while others have become newly politicized, in multiple directions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 67,000 people, including civilians and combatants, have been killed in Gaza, according to authorities there, sparking a surge in antisemitism among Jewish New Yorkers.
  • Many Jewish New Yorkers have found themselves caught between their support for Israel and their empathy for Palestinian suffering, leading to deep divisions within their community.
  • The war has brought a rise in antisemitism, both overt and subtle, with many Jewish New Yorkers reporting feeling threatened and unsafe.
  • Some Jewish New Yorkers have become newly politicized, with many identifying as "woke" and advocating for Palestinian rights.
  • The war has also led to a growth in support for left-wing and progressive Jewish organizations, such as Jews for Racial & Economic Justice and Partners for Progressive Israel.
  • Some Jewish New Yorkers are struggling with the feeling that their community is being misunderstood, with many feeling that they are being treated as if they are complicit in the policies of the Israeli government.
  • The war has also brought a renewed focus on Jewish identity and community, with many finding solace in their local community and a growing appreciation for Judaism and its teachings.

Statistics:

  • Over 67,000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to authorities there.
  • 1,200 people were killed and 250 were kidnapped on Oct. 7, 2023, in the bloodiest day in the country's history.
  • 67,000 deaths in Gaza, the largest number of deaths in the conflict.
  • 17-year-olds have formed an organization that brings Israeli and Palestinian teenagers together for an immersion in technology, leadership, and honest conversation.

Sources:

  • Audrey Sasson, who runs the New York-based Jews for Racial & Economic Justice.
  • Monica Jacobson and Arnold Bressler, a married couple who have lived in New York for about 50 years.
  • Rabbi Ellen Lippmann, founder of a progressive congregation, has twice welcomed Mr. Mamdani to services.
  • Shira Kramer, a 21-year-old senior at Yeshiva University in Manhattan, where she leads tours for prospective students.
  • Lyel Resner, 40, is trying to focus on a path forward, one which he believes will require that Americans move beyond their "binary" view of the conflict.