Jewish Democrats Condemn Antisemitic Rhetoric

WASHINGTON – Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) CEO Halie Soifer released the following condemnation of antisemitic rhetoric, including from Democrats: 

“In recent weeks, we have witnessed an increase in conspiracy theories and antisemitic tropes historically used to target Jews. This includes recent statements by Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, as well as former Ohio congressional candidate Nina Turner. JDCA cannot stress strongly enough the importance of speaking out against antisemitism in all forms and from all sources, regardless of partisan affiliation, and we strongly condemn the use of rhetoric that can be used to target Jews or any minority group.

“Elected officials and candidates for public office must understand the role that pernicious antisemitic rhetoric has played throughout history, resulting in discrimination and often violence–including mass murder and expulsions–against Jews. Conspiracy theories about improper Jewish influence, financial, political, or otherwise, are classic antisemitic tropes, and are equally dangerous. 

It is the responsibility of all public figures, Democratic and Republican, to avoid even the appearance of antisemitism and to measure their words carefully. There is no excuse for clear-cut cases of antisemitism, but public figures must recognize that they have a higher obligation to speak clearly and to avoid even the appearance that they are veering into antisemitism, just as they would and should be careful not to speak hatefully or inappropriately about any minority group.”

For more information on JDCA’s policy positions, its 2021 agenda, or to speak with Halie Soifer, contact [email protected].