Anti-Semitism and the Culture of Hate

The killings at Tree of Life Synagogue on Squirrel Hill in Pittsburgh were so horrific that it is difficult to know where to begin.  But not beginning at all would be the worst.  For it is in our silence and inaction that disregard of human life thrives.  Somehow all expressions of hatred get around to torture and killing of Jewish people.  Here we are again.  

We have read warnings that recent events and political speeches repeat the fascism of the 30’s and 40’s.  What I would like to know from those making these observations is what should we be doing at this point in time?  We protest, we rally, we write.  But surely there must be more.   Is there a more effective active resistance?  When do we reach the tipping point?  While still a minority, the neo-nazi bullies, behave like the majority when it comes to controlling us through terror.  One obstacle is that those of us who do not advocate hate and brutality have little experience with effective response.  November 6th might give us some hope.  But will that be enough?  

Those  who suffered genocide may help us understand what effective resistance looks like.  One member of Tree of Life Synagogue opined that this is not the time for silent support.  This is the time for loud, unending opposition.  Mass shootings have been normalized.  Hate crimes must not be.