The Blogs: Israel at 77: confronting the poison of antisemitism for today’s youth

Today, we proudly celebrate Israel’s 77th birthday, reflecting on its incredible journey from survival to independence. Despite significant challenges, Israel has become a symbol of resilience and joy.

Shining my Israeli spirit wherever I go, one of my proudest creations is the ‘Kosher Barbie Dress,’ which I designed featuring the Star of David. This dress has garnered positive attention and reflects my commitment to advocating against hate and discrimination toward Jews.

Since October 7th, my focus has shifted dramatically—from mentoring young Broadway performers in New York City to taking a stand against antisemitism through art. One of my recent artistic displays was created in Times Square, showcasing a red poison apple to raise awareness of antisemitism. This concept highlights that while one bite of the poison apple may seem harmless, it can ultimately lead to significant harm.

While engaging with participants, a young admirer named Mabel, a seven-year-old from Albania, eagerly approached me with the desire to “bite” the red apple. Her aunt shared that it was Mabel’s very first visit to the vibrant streets of New York City, and they both joined forces to capture this remarkable moment. This enthusiasm beautifully underscores a powerful message: in a diverse society like the United States, there is no room for hate or antisemitism against Jews. Despite our different backgrounds and ethnicities, we can unite in shared joy and understanding.

In today’s world, the poison apple stands as a powerful symbol in the fight against antisemitism. It serves as a reminder that even small comments that may seem harmless can have serious consequences for entire Jewish communities. Every word and action can help shape the world into a better place.