A New Day in America |
Recently, in conversation with a group of colleagues, we collectively concluded that our “American experience” had all but disappeared. Indeed, the core assumptions that we had been taught and had come to believe about this nation, our society and our own Jewish community have all come undone! Nor is this essay the first set of reflections on such changes, as the seeds of this unsettling moment have been evolving.
Historically, five principles defined the American Jewish mindset.
The US-Israel partnership was secure and sustainable. This unique relationship was bolstered by bipartisanship, strengthened by a broad base of public support, and enhanced by a cadre of journalists, writers and commentators who embraced this connection. The cultural artifacts were in place as well, involving Christian Zionism, a longstanding connection with American labor, and the presence within selective academic and civic circles of an alignment with this partnership.
By every measure, in 2026, all of this no longer exists! Quite the reverse appears in play today. The critique of Israel, its policies and leaders, appears in full display.
When dealing with global anti-Semitism, America was the exception. That assumption no longer holds credence. Over the course of the past ten years, anti-Jewish hatred in this nation has risen by nearly 900%. And the attack on Jews, Judaism, Zionism, and Israel is not only coming from one sector. In the past, Jews always felt a bit more comfortable, when we could identify the source of such hatred emanating from one extreme place or personality. In today’s climate, this assault on Jews is emanating simultaneously from multiple voices. The character and substance of these........