In 2020, American Jews woke up.
For years, the Jewish community in the United States has been a steadfast supporter of progressive causes and Democratic candidates. But in 2020, something shifted. The rise of antisemitism, both online and in real life, has made many American Jews feel increasingly vulnerable and marginalized. The violence in Charlottesville in 2017, where white supremacists chanted “Jews will not replace us,” was a wake-up call for many in the community.
The Trump administration’s policies and rhetoric also played a role in this awakening. The president’s comments about “both sides” being responsible for the violence in Charlottesville, his refusal to condemn white supremacists, and his anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim rhetoric all contributed to a growing sense of unease among American Jews.
But it wasn’t just external forces that led to this awakening. The Black Lives Matter movement, which gained momentum in 2020 following the killing of George Floyd, also played a role. Many American Jews saw parallels between the struggles of Black Americans and their own history of persecution and discrimination. They realized that they could no longer sit on the sidelines and watch as others fought for justice and equality.
In the 2020 election, American Jews made their voices heard. A record number of Jewish voters turned out to support Joe Biden, who ultimately won the presidency. Jewish organizations and leaders also spoke out against the rise of antisemitism and white supremacy, and called for greater unity and solidarity among all marginalized communities.
The year 2020 was a wake-up call for American Jews, but it was also a turning point. It was a time of reckoning and reflection, of standing up and speaking out. In the face of rising hate and division, American Jews found their voice and their power. They realized that they could no longer afford to be silent or complacent. They had to be vigilant, to be vigilant, and to be vigilant. And in doing so, they helped to shape a more just and inclusive future for all.
