COMBATTING ANTISEMITISM THROUGH CONVERSATION
Since the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, antisemitism continues to rise in our country and in the city of Los Angeles. Young people in our community have experienced antisemitic rhetoric in their schools, during extracurriculars, in friend groups, and on social media. The constant exposure can have distressing effects, further isolating children who are trying to establish a sense of self and identity during a critical time of emotional development.
The effects of antisemitism on the Littles in our Youth Mentoring program over the last nine months have been nothing short of devastating. Our mentoring specialists consoled the parents of the Little who asked their parents to remove the mezuzah from their door so that no one knows their family is Jewish. A Little in our program made the local news after she experienced an attack at school where a student unleashed antisemitic slurs and physically assaulted her because she is Jewish. In June, a violent protest erupted at a synagogue in the most heavily Jewish neighborhood in Los Angeles.
Lending an ear
At JBBBSLA, we are in a unique position to help mitigate the damage our young people suffer because of hatred and fear. Unfortunately, negative feelings about the Jewish community existed well before October 7. That’s why for decades, our training for Big Brothers and Sisters in our Youth Mentoring program has included the important subject of how to have conversations with young people about antisemitism. In addition to their mentors, we strongly encourage parents, guardians, and adults with influence on children to have the knowledge to combat antisemitism.
The most important elements of speaking with children about antisemitism are: 1) showing support, and 2) displaying empathy. Listen to the young person. Respond with, “I understand what you’re feeling. Let’s talk about ways to feel more confident in these situations.” These conversations, although stressful, need to be regular, ongoing conversations to help give young people the tools they need to be confident in themselves and their Jewish heritage.
Community Support
Our community came together to support the Little who experienced the attack at school, empowering her to organize a walkout at her school to protest the hate speech she experienced. Offering care and support at a critical time can make all the difference in how a child deals with antisemitism.
Join us in the fight against antisemitism
As the conflict in Gaza continues, there is still so much work to be done. Jewish youth need to feel they have an adult they can ask for support to help them navigate these especially challenging times. Jewish identity is difficult to navigate. Not everyone has a Jewish role model beyond a parent or close family member. At JBBBSLA, we need to reach Jewish youth in Los Angeles who don’t have a Big in their life but need one more than ever.
If you or someone you know might be interested in being a Big or a Little with JBBBSLA, visit jbbbsla.org/mentorship.