***Op-Ed***
Judeo-Christian values have played a significant role in shaping the moral and ethical framework of America. Rooted in the shared religious heritage of Judaism and Christianity, these values have influenced the country’s laws, institutions, and cultural norms.
Concepts such as the sanctity of life, individual liberty, equality, and the pursuit of justice are deeply embedded in the American ethos and have been informed by the moral teachings and principles found in the Judeo-Christian tradition.
They have provided a moral compass for individuals and leaders alike, helping to guide the nation through its history and serving as a foundation for the principles of freedom and democracy that America holds dear.
So, it’s no surprise that in recent years, we have witnessed an alarming and deeply troubling trend within the halls of Congress – an increase in incidents of anti-Semitism, which is also an attack on our Judeo-Christian values. While our nation has long prided itself on being a beacon of democracy, tolerance, and religious freedom, the rise of anti-Semitism in Congress threatens to tarnish these ideals and divide our society even more than we are today.
It is crucial to acknowledge that criticism of the Israeli government’s policies is not inherently anti-Semitic – but once that criticism crosses into calling for boycotts of Israel and saying Israel doesn’t have the right to exist, that is textbook anti-Semitism.
In a democracy like ours, freedom of speech and robust debate are fundamental rights, and holding governments accountable for their actions is a cornerstone of our democratic process. However, the line between legitimate criticism and harmful, prejudiced rhetoric can often be blurred, and some members of Congress cross this line on a weekly basis.
One of the most troubling manifestations of anti-Semitism in Congress is the promulgation of harmful stereotypes about Jewish people. These stereotypes have been used for centuries to marginalize and discriminate against Jewish communities. It is deeply concerning to see elected officials invoking these stereotypes.
Moreover, some members of Congress have made statements that suggest a disregard for the security and well-being of Israel, our ally in a region marked by instability. While it is entirely valid to engage in constructive criticism of Israeli policies, it is also essential to recognize that Israel’s security concerns are real and complex. Ignoring or downplaying these concerns only serves to deepen divisions and does not contribute to a constructive dialogue on the issue.
To combat the rise of anti-Semitism in Congress and to preserve our Judeo-Christian values, leadership within Congress must always denounce anti-Semitism unequivocally. Bipartisan condemnation of any form of hate speech sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated within the halls of government. The adoption of resolutions, such as the recent House resolution condemning anti-Semitism, is a step in the right direction, but it must be accompanied by tangible actions.
The rise of anti-Semitism in Congress is a direct threat to the Judeo-Christian values and principles that our nation was founded on. It is our collective responsibility, Jews and Christians, to ensure that our elected officials are held accountable for spreading lies about the Jewish community and the State of Israel.
Bryan E. Leib is the Executive Director of CASEPAC and he is a TV/Radio commentator on anti-Semitism, Foreign Policy and the Middle East. He is the former Executive Director of the Iranian Americans for Liberty. He can be reached at bleib@casepac.org
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