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 limited to 12 participants. Priority in registration is given to people of the global majority.

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

This class is for Gentile Allies who are committed to learning how to be better allies to Jews. 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!

Trainers: Betsy Ames leads groups to help people free themselves from the effects of oppression. She is an ally in the ongoing work to end anti-Semitism; and Benita Jackson, PhD MPH, is Professor of Psychology at Smith College, and Director of the Society, Psychology, and Health Laboratory.