Sojourner Truth School for Social Change Leadership

Anti-Semitism has been used for centuries to divert the rage of working people so that systemic oppression and exploitation can remain unchallenged, especially during times of major crisis.

This class is for Gentiles* – those without Jewish heritage. We are prioritizing registrations from people of the global majority (people of color); at least half the class will be PGM/POC. The class will be no larger than 12.

How Anti-Semitism Derails Social Change: A Toolkit for Gentile Allies to Jews Amidst a Global Crisis

Anti-Semitism** has been used for centuries to divert the rage of working people so that systemic oppression and exploitation can remain unchallenged, especially during times of major crisis. As Gentiles (non-Jews), it is not our fault that we might feel confused about the misinformation that has been handed to us for centuries about Jews. At the same time, it is our responsibility to 1) learn the roots of anti-Semitism, and 2) recognize the many obvious and subtle forms of anti-Semitism, so that we can stand alongside Jews against the blame, isolation, and terror that characterize this oppression. Removing the tendency to blame – ourselves or others – allows us to shift out of a passive mindset and into a position of authentic power and influence. Learning this skill is essential to effectively counteract the tendency of anti-Semitism to divide movements for social justice and to bring about lasting change that is good for everyone. Ending anti-Semitism is key to ending all forms of oppression. We are living in unprecedented times and can together steer history in the direction of liberation. Please join us!

*This space is expressly for Gentiles to learn about Jewish oppression and the role Gentiles can play as allies. Similar to an affinity group, the context is intended to not rely on Jews to educate or to have to experience Gentile confusions and biases. Our team also offers classes for Jews and allies together.

**The term “anti-Semitism” is less precise than “anti-Jewish oppression.” e.g., there are also Semitic peoples who are not Jews. Still, we use the former term here because it commonly refers to the specific oppression directed against the Jewish people.

Trainers: Betsy Ames is the executive director of the Northeast Home Energy Rating System Alliance. Additionally, she is a trainer and consultant leading groups to help people free themselves from the effects of oppression, including at the Franklin County Interfaith Council and co-teaching last year’s Truth School class, We Will Not Be Divided: Jews and Allies Standing Together Against Anti-Semitism; and Benita Jackson, PhD MPH, is Professor of Psychology at Smith College, and Director of the Society, Psychology, and Health Laboratory.