Experiences Tell More than Academic Theory.

Hannah Bee • Age 26
they/them, Health educator, Vancouver B.C.

Antisemitism does not depend on how much Jewish people contribute to society or how “good” we are. It has existed for thousands of years and has pushed Jewish people out of broader culture and public life many times. One of the best ways to fight antisemitism is by embracing Jewish life and culture. This helps us understand its importance, and maintain resilience.

It scares me how politicians use Jewish people as political pawns, yet how all political parties can feel unsafe for Jewish people right now. It scares me knowing that my dad fled Soviet antisemitism to come to Canada for a safe place for his children and is now seeing the same antisemitism play out . It scares me knowing how risky it is to appear visibly Jewish in public right now.

But what gives me hope is: prayer, learning about Jewish thought, having conversations with non-Jewish allies, seeing young people living and being proudly Jewish despite cyclical setbacks.

(as told to Alexa Hulse)