In a recent discussion on Jewish identity and the rising tide of antisemitism, Andrew Goretsky, the senior regional director for the Philadelphia office of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), emphasized that these two aspects are not conflicting priorities but rather interconnected elements of Jewish life. This perspective comes amid growing concerns about the safety and visibility of Jewish communities worldwide.
Understanding the Connection Between Identity and Safety
Goretsky shared his personal journey as a Jewish man who has yet to visit Israel, despite feeling a profound connection to the nation. He remarked that his family could not afford such a trip during his childhood, and by the time he planned a visit for his son’s bar mitzvah, events took an unexpected turn. On October 7, 2023, his family’s travel plans were abruptly halted due to escalating violence, highlighting the complexity of Jewish identity shaped by both cultural experiences and external threats.
He noted that Jewish identity is cultivated through shared experiences and community engagement, often hindered by financial barriers. Goretsky pointed to remarks made by Bret Stephens during his “State of World Jewry” address at the 92nd Street Y, where Stephens argued for reallocating resources from fighting antisemitism to enhancing Jewish identity through education, culture, and community. This statement sparked debate about the focus of Jewish communal efforts and the implications for future generations.
According to Goretsky, the fear of antisemitism dominating Jewish identity can lead to a defensive mindset, particularly among younger generations. He expressed concern that if Jewish life is primarily viewed through the lens of threat, it risks fostering a culture of anxiety rather than one of pride and belonging. He asserted, “Fear cannot be the center of Jewish identity,” urging communities to find a balance between addressing threats and nurturing a vibrant Jewish life.
A Strategic Approach to Combatting Antisemitism
Goretsky’s experience as the senior regional director of the ADL informs his belief that Jewish life flourishes when individuals feel secure enough to participate fully in their communities. He emphasized that the fight against antisemitism should not overshadow the importance of fostering a strong Jewish identity. “The point is to do both, intelligently,” he stated.
He illustrated this with a recent campus visit, where he encountered flyers promoting an event that honored a controversial figure. While the immediate reaction among Jewish student leaders was to cancel the event, Goretsky urged them to consider a broader approach. He suggested that rather than focusing solely on cancellation, they should create counter-messaging that informs and engages the wider community, particularly those who may not be aware of the implications of such events.
Goretsky’s approach advocates for strategic responses to antisemitism that extend beyond immediate reactions. Instead of viewing threats as isolated incidents requiring cancellation, he proposes a more holistic strategy that includes education and awareness to prevent misunderstandings and foster dialogue.
As antisemitic incidents continue to rise, with the ADL recording 9,354 such incidents in the United States alone in 2024, the urgency for a dual approach becomes more pronounced. Goretsky believes that addressing the root causes of antisemitism while simultaneously promoting Jewish identity is essential for fostering a future where Jewish individuals can thrive without fear or stigma.
Ultimately, Goretsky envisions a future where Jewish identity is not defined by fear or defense but by a rich heritage and community engagement. He emphasizes that the journey toward this vision requires treating Jewish identity and the fight against antisemitism as inseparable components of the same mission.
As he reflects on his personal aspirations for his son, Goretsky remains committed to advocating for a Jewish life that is vibrant, accessible, and free from intimidation. The path forward, he argues, lies in recognizing that both identity and safety must be prioritized together to ensure a flourishing Jewish community for generations to come.
