(Jewish Group) Showing Up as a Progressive Zionist in Activist Spaces

[Behind the Aegis]

(THIS IS THE JEWISH GROUP! RESPECT!!)

I had the honor of speaking last month at Pittsburgh’s Women’s March. While the national leadership was under intense scrutiny, many felt it important that the local march embraced two Jewish speakers: Rebecca Glickman, a 17-year-old who mentioned the names of every victim of the Tree of Life shooting, and myself, a liberal Zionist who stated this as part of my identity in my remarks. Not everyone in the Jewish community understood my decision to speak, but through many conversations with people who have varied beliefs, I felt encouraged to share my experiences being a progressive activist during a time of increasing divisiveness in our country.

We are divided in our beliefs, but even more divided by our inability to engage with others who feel differently. Throughout my various experiences of working in the Jewish community, I have strived for balance and nuance, which these days are harder to come by.

A lot has been said lately about anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism (both separately and intertwined) in leftist activist movements. It needs to be addressed, no doubt. It is difficult to navigate complicated narratives and relationships within movements, and many find their backs against a wall when trying to formulate opinions on whether to stay or to leave.

For anyone who considers themselves left of center, there is a deep feeling of loss when having to confront this. When one’s passions, ideals and pursuit of justice align with other like-minded groups, it is understandable to feel betrayed by the very people who claim to have provided “safe spaces” where your voice has been valued in the past.

It is important to recognize that everyone’s lived experience and pain must be seen and acknowledged. Perhaps the larger question is how we choose to move through the pain and create opportunities for growth and reconciliation. There is no one right way to engage in difficult conversations. We all must lead with good intentions and try to assume the best intentions of others, while we build relationships grounded in trust.

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