Silence says everything
10.11.2023
The silence is DEAFENING.
Condemnation of such horrific, barbaric and inhumane acts of terror should be expected. It is logical to believe there would be outrage for the kidnapping, murder, torture, rape and decapitation of innocent babies, children, young adults and grandparents. The terrorists did not discriminate against who they butchered. And as clear as it seems to so many, others are trying to justify these acts of terror or minimize the severity of these vicious attacks. Let me be clear, silence equals approval of these heinous acts. We are listening, we are waiting and we are watching for support.
I concede that people have varying perspectives on a multitude of issues ranging from how to achieve peace in the Middle East to the ownership of land in Gaza and Israel’s oversight. But this terrorist attack is NOT about any of that, nor will it do anything to address those issues. This is about HUMANITY. This is about TERRORISM.
Make no mistake, anti-semitism is surging all over the world. What other explanation is there for such silence? The lack of condemnation from universities, businesses, celebrities and athletes (anyone with a platform) is the equivalent to saying Israeli lives are “less than” and not worthy of taking a stand on right or wrong.
As a member of the Jewish community, I have been educated about the persecution of our people for thousands of years. It is because of our history that we are typically more sympathetic to marginalized groups. Following the Holocaust and the orchestrated attempt to eradicate our race, the Jewish people committed to never allow that to happen again. And here we are. Our people, babies to the elderly, are being murdered in their homes, raped and dragged through the streets, kidnapped and held hostage as we watch. Figuratively and literally, as we watch. So, anyone who does not unequivocally call this what it is—acts of terrorism—is complicit in these vile acts.
I like to think of myself as a socially-conscious person. I fundamentally believe in the equality of humanity, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender identity. It is my Jewish family and friends who I see supporting groups who need their voices amplified. Where are the very people we have supported? More than three days after the initial attacks, the list of those who have expressed outrage over Hamas’ acts of terror remains way too short.
There is no doubt the bloodshed will continue. As Israel wages war on Hamas, we will hear of Palestinian casualties because Hamas uses their own people as shields. Hamas doesn’t value life, any life. The story must not be muddied. Hamas is the enemy, not Israelis or Palestinians. This is not about occupation, this is about humanity. You don’t need to be Israeli, or Jewish to speak out against this terror, you need to be human and care about human lives. We have stood with you, we have raised awareness of your plight, we have championed your equality, where are you when we need you?
I remember the feelings in New York City in the days following 9/11. Our agreement that Al Qaeda was the enemy was universal. No one justified those heinous acts of terrorism, no one defended Al Qaeda, no one debated US policy. Some things are simply indefensible, or should be. This is Israel’s 9/11.
I’m consumed with watching the television coverage from Israel and reading every article I can find. I feel like it is my obligation to be informed. The more I read, the more disillusioned I am. Hatred for Israel and Jewish people is rampant in this country. It is terrifying. We must make it different. Please don’t be silent. Please share your outrage for these acts of terror against humanity. Please pressure leaders, organizations and anyone with a platform to do the same. Please offer your support to someone Jewish. Please think about which side of history you want to be on. Please help us ensure that when we say NEVER AGAIN, we mean NEVER AGAIN.