In recent weeks, progressive Jewish Americans have taken to the streets, occupying train stations, highways, and government buildings, calling for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Their actions, motivated by the rallying cries of “Not in our name,” “never again for anyone,” and “ceasefire now,” have brought attention to the complex relationship between America’s Jewish population and Israel. With public opinion divided and diverse, this movement reflects a growing dissatisfaction with the Israeli government’s response to the conflict.
A Call for Ceasefire and Public Opinion:
Thousands of Jewish American protesters have participated in over a dozen civil disobedience actions since October 7th, taking place in prominent locations such as Washington, D.C., New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Boston, and Durham. Their demands for a ceasefire resonate with public sentiment, as a poll conducted by Data for Progress revealed that 66% of U.S. voters either strongly or somewhat agree with the idea. However, public opinion within the Jewish community regarding Israel varies widely, making this movement a clear reflection of the ongoing divisions and debates.
A Complex Relationship:
The relationship between American Jews and Israel has always been multifaceted. While almost half of Jewish Americans consider caring about Israel as essential to their Jewish identity, a 2021 Pew survey highlights that 16% do not find it important. The rest fall somewhere in between, perceiving it as significant but not essential. These divergent opinions are reflected in other polls, with one survey indicating substantial support for military aid to Israel, while another found that a quarter of Jewish American voters viewed Israel as an apartheid state. Jewish organizations like Jewish Voice for Peace, which have spearheaded civil disobedience actions, amplify the divisions within the American Jewish community.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza:
Since the October 7th Hamas attack, Israel’s response has resulted in the deaths of over 11,000 Palestinians, predominantly civilians. Hospitals in Gaza have shuttered or are running out of resources, leaving more than two-thirds of the population without access to clean water. As Israel continues its blockade, Gaza, with its population of 2 million, including many children, faces the spread of disease and malnutrition. These conditions have led international human rights groups to deem Israel’s treatment of Palestinians as apartheid and consider Gaza as an open-air prison.
Clashing Perspectives on Israel’s Right to Defend Itself:
The civil disobedience actions have drawn criticism from organizations like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which argue that challenging Israel’s right to defend itself feeds into antisemitism. However, Jewish Voice for Peace has accused the ADL of fueling Islamophobia, securing impunity for Israel, and conflating anti-Zionism with antisemitism. The growing debate over Israel’s actions has also emerged within Israel itself, as some citizens, including families of hostages, protest the government’s response to the conflict.
Voices Arising from Civil Disobedience:
Universally, those engaged in the civil disobedience actions affirm their commitment to human rights and justice. Jewish artist Morgan Bassichis, who organized a group of artists and writers to be arrested during a protest at Grand Central, explains that their deep belief in freedom for Palestinians, rather than anti-Semitism, drives their actions. For others, like 81-year-old Rosalind Petchesky, participating in these acts of civil disobedience is a matter of responsibility and solidarity. They argue that supporting a ceasefire is crucial to prevent further loss of life.
The recent surge in civil disobedience actions by progressive Jewish Americans calling for a ceasefire reflects the complexity and divisions within the Jewish community’s relationship with Israel. As the Israel-Hamas conflict rages on, the voices of dissent are becoming more prominent, revealing a growing desire for peace and justice among Jewish Americans. While opinions remain diverse, the collective actions highlight a shared commitment to ending the violence and humanitarian crisis in the region.
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