As a Jew in the past year (especially) I find myself constantly aware of what I say about being Jewish/Israel/Gaza/the current hostage situation. I am also reminded by many — neighbors and friends — that I should “be careful” about how I choose to share my opinions and feelings.
This is a scary time. So, for this reason, I want to thank Gazette columnist J.M. Sorrell [” Growing signs of antisemitism in the open,” Sept. 4] and others who have bravely written many words I have wanted to share, but dare not to, in specific settings.
I can’t believe that we are scared to be supportive of Israel, display an Israeli flag, or God forbid support Jewish students in this country who are regularly being harassed and sometimes terrorized during what should be their fun, self-exploring college years. And to add to this sad situation, those who call for “censored” antisemitism in our local school district — add to the dismissal of our hardship and violent history as Jews.
This is simply unacceptable. Protest here and elsewhere is fine, but not at the expense of chastising Jews and name-calling of Israel, which many of us have a family connection to and love for. This is not about supporting the Israeli (or U.S.) government — this is about cherishing our homeland and not being being hated as a race or religion.
For me, being a Jew is both. And I love who I am.
Veronica Darmon
Northampton