Israel and Antisemitism Post-October 7

Jaylene Tirado, Ninth Grade, Hebrew Academy Community Day School, Huntington Beach, California

“Israel, the Jewish state, the only democracy in the Middle East, continues to shine as a beacon of light in the darkest region of the world.” - Brigitte Gabriel

On October 7, Israel fell victim with a surprise attack resulting in the death and kidnapping of so many people in Israel. This tragic news of the horrendous attacks was shared at shul during Simchat Torah, a celebration that is typically one of the happiest and most cheerful holidays of the year. 

Coincidentally, the occasion also marked my accomplishment of having read the Torah to completion over a yearlong period. The high level of excitement was to become the lowest level of devastation upon learning of this awful ambush. While it was hoped that a quick recovery for my brothers and sisters in Israel would transpire, sadly, more bad news followed. Online, various news sites would tragically display a plethora of disgusting antisemitic videos posted by freelancers stationed throughout the globe, dedicated to spreading pure hatred towards Israel and the Jewish community. 

It was inescapable, both online and in real life. Minor yet uncomfortable examples included awkward, accusing stares, while more deplorable instances involved bearing witness to aggressors tearing down posters of the hostages which had been thoughtfully placed throughout the neighborhood. How could anybody be so heartless as to rip off a poster of a baby who had been kidnapped in Israel by Hamas? Some went so far as to compare the Holocaust with the apparent “genocide” currently happening in Gaza.

Regrettably, the attack on Israel undoubtedly took a toll on my Jewish identity. Teenagers usually like to blend in, not stand out. I felt targeted being a Jewish girl when out in public. My clothes serve as a proud display of my religion; for example, I choose to wear long skirts. It is even more apparent when I am out with my mother, since she wears a hair cover. 

Hearing antisemitic abuse repeatedly was very difficult to understand, so I began to feel self-conscious and judged by others to the point that it was uncomfortable. Being a peaceful person, I second-guessed everything about myself. I did not want to feel targeted. While I wasn't born a Jew, so I’m a Jew by choice, I’ve always known that I am one since I can feel it in my heart. 

Moreover, I take great pride in my faith and being part of such a wonderful community. I turned to Hashem and realized that my belief in Zionism and supporting Israel was far more important than being self-conscious and caring about what some narrow-minded people thought of me and my community. 

Being a proud Jewish girl, it is important to send the message that we are all human, Jews and non-Jews alike. One does not need to be Jewish to show solidarity with Israel and the hostages. I've decided wholeheartedly that I will always have faith in my religion and show my support to Israel, the Jewish people’s home.