'A Swinging Bunch of People" No Longer

Key Findings:

This essay explores how Jewish identity and the perception of Jews in American culture have evolved over time. It reflects on the historical trajectory of Jewish success and the challenges of retaining a strong Jewish identity in the face of modern antisemitism.

In the late 1950s, Sammy Davis Jr. was a highly celebrated entertainer, renowned for his exceptional talents in singing, dancing, and impersonation. He was perceived as "cool" and talented by virtually everyone who saw him perform. In 1961, Davis became one of the most famous converts to Judaism, a trend that was also observed with other celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe. These conversions took place just before significant changes in the status of Jews in elite American institutions.

The author underscores the notion that Jews were admired for their achievements despite facing social discrimination. The post-World War II era marked a period of increasing Jewish success in various fields, including literature, the arts, and the entertainment industry. Jews were seen as self-made individuals who overcame societal barriers and exemplified the American dream. This success was attributed to their cultural tradition, which prioritized intellect over physical attributes.

The author contrasts Sammy Davis Jr.'s attraction to Judaism and Kanye West's embrace of antisemitism. West's mental health issues may have helped lead him down his path, but his desire to maintain his image as a fashion-forward icon will have prevented it if he believed that his outbursts would lead to irreversible career damage. 

Jews cannot be considered "cool" because they are high achievers who seek approval and do not challenge societal norms. With Jews having become an integral part of American culture, they can no longer claim outsider status. The author advises that Jews should not overly emphasize their victimhood, but instead use their achievements as a means to combat hatred. 

The community is encouraged to engage in localized activism, form coalitions to address specific issues, and leverage their resources and influence to counter antisemitism. The author highlights the need for self-confidence and assertive activism, and draws upon Jewish achievements to counter hatred and prejudice.