r/JewsOfConscience Ashkenazi Apr 23 '24

Discussion Being a Jewish Anti-Zionist feels exhausting.

First off, I’m an American and I am aware of exactly how much privilege that affords me.

But at the same time I feel like I’m fighting on all fronts - I’m fighting my own people, sometimes my own family, who cannot even bring themselves to acknowledge the crimes against humanity being committed. Heck even if I censor myself and my true feelings about Israel (that it was made as a monument to antisemitism, not a place to fight it) I’m a “traitor”

And then when there is actual antisemitism if I call it out, I get attacked for it and called a zionazi.

I am just so tired and worn out emotionally from all this. It feels like the group of people I can rely on or trust is very small.

476 Upvotes

95 comments sorted by

View all comments

104

u/Being-of-Dasein Non-Jewish Ally Apr 23 '24 edited Apr 23 '24

Unfortunately, this is the price for taking a moral stand. The thing that keeps me going is that I want to be able to face myself in the mirror and be able to say that my principles matter. I could not abide being a moral coward, no matter how much simpler that would make living in this corrupt world.

In addressing you, and other Jewish people like you, personally, however, I would say your role is absolutely crucial to the anti-zionist movement. Without you, we would be labelled as anti-Semites as a way to delegitimise us. We need you. Solidarity in the struggle, comrade.

52

u/ray-the-they Ashkenazi Apr 23 '24

I have no intention of stopping. But I definitely needed a moment of mental peace to get my energy back.

35

u/Being-of-Dasein Non-Jewish Ally Apr 23 '24

Good man. Wasn't suggesting you were thinking of stopping, just thought I'd share my thought process on it to help you contexualise why it's worth it to keep fighting.

You're not alone in this, but I won't pretend you, and people like you, don't have it the hardest. You have to fight your own people and family on this, something I have never had to do with my own people and family (Muslim). Please know that your sacrifice and moral conviction is not unrecognised, nor unappreciated—quite the opposite in fact! Your moral courage and other notable Jewish people, such as Dr. Finkelstein, are a source of constant inspiration. This sub is a shining example of the moral conviction and tradition that the Jewish people can uphold. You are the greatest ally to have in this struggle. Keep fighting the good fight.

3

u/MassivePsychology862 Non-Jewish Ally Apr 24 '24 edited Apr 24 '24

Bless you. Take the time you need. I’m here as a non-Jewish ally. I’m Lebanese and I’m having the same struggles with some of my family members. It is exhausting.

Take your time. Recharge. We need strength to not only advocate for peace but to also confront those in our immediate circles. It’s one thing to protest. It’s an entirety different thing when it comes to engaging with family and friends.

This all takes a toll. Giving yourself space is so important. Allowing ourselves to burnout doesn’t do any good for anyone, including ourselves.