They Are Doing Their Part — Are You?

Key Findings:

This essay emphasizes that Hamas’s massacres are not merely an issue confined to the region — they constitute a global moral battle. This war is a struggle between good and evil, and the need for individuals to make their stance clear is very real. 

Readers, both Jewish and non-Jewish, must recognize their involvement — however far removed it feels. Whether or not one has direct connections to Israelis that were murdered, wounded, raped or taken hostage, to loved ones called back on IDF reserve or active duty, or to those hiding in bomb shelters, the time has come to take a stand against evil and support what is right. The severity of the intentional killing and brutalization of innocent Jews (including babies, entire families, pregnant women, and Holocaust survivors) should dismiss any concerns about potential consequences for speaking out and argue that this is a critical moment in history.

The author challenges readers to reflect on historical instances of violence against Jews, such as the Holocaust and pogroms, and poses the question of how they would have acted during those times. They stress the importance of condemning evil and emphasize that this moment requires individuals to choose a side.

The range of actions that people can take to show their support are outlined: 

(1) One’s pain must be expressed, not hidden. One should answer honestly when people ask how one feels.

(2) One must not hide their Jewishness, it should be worn with pride. Jews are not victims, Jews are strong and resilient even with a history littered with death — with massacres just like this. Jews remember, constantly, to remind themselves always to choose life. The Jewish people has a mission, a purpose, and is a light in the world. In every generation their enemies rise to destroy the Jewish people, and every time, the Jewish people persevere and outlive. 

(3) Making sure to thank those writing good statements and taking positive actions, including elected officials, Biden, Blinken, rabbis, deans or administrators or teachers who show kindness to children, non-Jewish friends who send notes or dinner invitations, coworkers who express their support. All of these good people are needed in the fight. 

(4) When encountering known and unknown individuals  failing this most basic of moral tests, call them out every time and repeatedly. 

(5) Hold organizations and individuals accountable for their positions on the conflict, including disassociating from them if they do not meet the basic moral standards.

Jewish communal professionals and leaders have a unique role to play in this situation, in unequivocally condemning the killing of Jews and support Israel's right to defend itself. The current situation transcends politics and is primarily about condemning barbarism. As the conflict unfolds and the focus shifts to Gaza, it will become more challenging to remind people of the conflict's origin. The author urges readers to act now and stand their ground — that this is a moral obligation.