Antisemitism: Implications for Social Work Involvement

Overview: Antisemitism is a negative perception of Jewish people manifested through rhetorical and or physical attacks on individuals, Jewish institutions and property which have significantly increased since 2020. Social work's focus on oppression and social justice mandates attention to this insidious prejudice, which must begin with its inclusion in the curriculum.Proposal text: Antisemitism, one of the oldest forms of prejudice and oppression is surging throughout the world. It ranges from verbal abuse to the destruction of property and murder. In the last two years, attacks against Jews in the United States became the overwhelming target of religion-based hate crimes. Stereotypes and myths continue to fuel prejudice and antisemitism in society. Factors such as anti-Israel sentiments, remarks by persons in power, the use of social media, white nationalism, and even the Covid 19 pandemic have contributed to its escalation.Social work with its mandate to promote social justice and human rights and challenge oppression cannot ignore antisemitism and its impact on individuals and societies. However, the subject is basically ignored in social work curriculum. Reasons for this may include the perception that Jews are "white" and thus not a vulnerable group, the small proportion of Jewish people in the population, beliefs that all Jews are successful, and a failure to separate Judaism from Zionism, a specific political policy. Under the auspices of NASW, NY State Chapter, the two presenters established a national Jewish Social Workers Interest Group, that meets monthly. The Group has approximately 200 members from across the country as well as Canada. This paper will provide a brief history of antisemitism, including cultural stereotypes and beliefs that underlie it and its current manifestations at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The paper will also offer models for incorporating education about antisemitism into the curriculum, including self-reflective exercises and consciousness-raising activities. Helping students to develop critical thinking is essential for counteracting antisemitism and its extreme manifestations, including those of White Supremacists. The paper will also include the findings from a national survey of NASW members, conducted through NASW/NY state, that focused on their responses concerning antisemitism in the profession.