From Words to Deeds: Showing Up For Israel

In an increasingly complex and polarized world, showing up for the causes we care about and the people we wish to support demands more than just words or fleeting gestures. For non-Jewish supporters of Israel and members of the Jewish community, understanding how to be an effective ally is crucial, especially as antisemitism rises globally and Israel continues to face geopolitical challenges. This blog post explores how non-Jewish allies can provide meaningful support to their Jewish friends, colleagues, and the broader Jewish community, both in their personal lives and on the international stage.

Understanding Allyship: A Foundation of Solidarity

At its core, allyship is about empathy, action, and education. It is a proactive stance that seeks to uplift and protect marginalized or vulnerable communities. For non-Jews standing in support of Israel and the Jewish people, allyship is multifaceted: it includes challenging stereotypes and misinformation, fostering genuine connections, and amplifying Jewish voices rather than speaking for them.

A critical starting point is to understand the diversity within Judaism itself. Jews are not a monolith. Their experiences vary significantly across ethnic, religious, and cultural lines—from Sephardic Jews in North Africa to Ashkenazi Jews in Europe and Jews of Ethiopian descent. Recognizing this diversity is essential for non-Jewish supporters to avoid flattening Jewish identity into a singular narrative.

Education: Know the History and the Present

The first step to becoming an effective ally is education. Many non-Jewish supporters of Israel are drawn to the country for its rich historical, religious, and cultural significance. However, it is important not only to be familiar with Israel’s biblical past but also with its modern political, social, and economic context. This includes understanding the Arab-Israeli conflict, the peace process, and the role of Israel in the Middle East, as well as the history of Zionism and its evolution.

Equally important is learning about the Jewish diaspora and the historical and contemporary experiences of Jews outside Israel. The history of antisemitism in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, as well as how it has evolved into new forms of hate today, should be central to any ally’s understanding. Being an ally means being able to identify and call out antisemitic tropes, whether they come from the far-right, far-left, or mainstream discourse.

A well-rounded education on these topics enables non-Jewish allies to have informed conversations, whether online, in the workplace, or in social circles. It provides the language to challenge harmful narratives and to stand confidently with the Jewish community when it faces bigotry or hatred.

Combatting Antisemitism: From Microaggressions to Violent Extremism

Antisemitism manifests in various forms, from subtle microaggressions to violent extremism. As a non-Jewish ally, it’s critical to understand that antisemitism isn’t just a “Jewish problem”—it’s a societal problem. Non-Jews must actively intervene when antisemitism surfaces in conversation, the media, or within institutions.

One of the most common manifestations of antisemitism in contemporary discourse is the conflation of criticism of Israel with antisemitic rhetoric. Critiquing Israeli policy, like any nation’s policies, is valid; however, when these critiques devolve into questioning Israel’s right to exist or using language that demonizes the Jewish people, it crosses the line into antisemitism. Non-Jewish allies can help clarify this distinction in public forums, demonstrating that legitimate political debate need not be rooted in hate.

Additionally, everyday interactions provide ample opportunities to combat more subtle forms of antisemitism. Jokes about Jewish stereotypes, casual remarks about Jewish wealth or influence, or dismissing the Holocaust as “old news” all contribute to a toxic environment. Non-Jewish allies must be prepared to step in, educate, and correct these misconceptions, even when it may be uncomfortable or unpopular.

Fostering Interfaith Dialogue: Building Genuine Relationships

Allyship cannot be built solely on political stances or online advocacy; it must be rooted in genuine, interpersonal connections. For non-Jewish supporters of Israel and the Jewish people, fostering relationships through interfaith dialogue is a key way to deepen understanding and build solidarity.

Interfaith organizations and events provide opportunities to learn more about Judaism and to share one’s own religious or spiritual experiences. This type of exchange helps break down barriers and challenge preconceived notions on both sides. Importantly, these dialogues should not shy away from difficult topics—disagreements may arise, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but approaching these conversations with a spirit of humility and curiosity can foster mutual respect.

In everyday life, non-Jewish allies can take small but meaningful steps to support Jewish friends and colleagues. For instance, being mindful of Jewish holidays and traditions—such as refraining from scheduling events on Yom Kippur or Rosh Hashanah—demonstrates respect for Jewish cultural practices. Offering support to Jewish coworkers during moments of heightened antisemitism, whether through private conversations or public statements of solidarity, can also provide significant emotional comfort.

Advocating for Israel: Constructive Support vs. Blind Endorsement

For many non-Jewish supporters, the relationship with Israel is often rooted in deep religious or historical ties. However, effective advocacy for Israel requires nuance and responsibility. Supporting Israel’s right to exist and thrive does not mean unconditionally endorsing all of its government’s policies. In fact, constructive criticism of policies, when done from a place of love and concern, can be a powerful tool for change.

It’s important to avoid falling into the trap of engaging with Israel’s adversaries solely in a defensive manner. Instead, focus on highlighting Israel’s achievements in fields like technology, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, while acknowledging the ongoing challenges it faces in balancing security with the need for peace.

Additionally, non-Jewish allies should support Jewish Israelis and the broader diaspora in their efforts to create a more just and inclusive society, such as advocating for the rights of Arab citizens of Israel or supporting initiatives aimed at reducing social inequality.

Amplifying Jewish Voices: Being the Bridge, Not the Voice

One of the most important roles for non-Jewish allies is to amplify Jewish voices rather than speaking on their behalf. It is easy for well-intentioned supporters to inadvertently overshadow those they wish to help by dominating discussions or centering their own perspectives. The key to effective allyship is knowing when to step back and provide platforms for Jews to share their experiences, struggles, and achievements.

Whether in online advocacy, public events, or everyday conversations, non-Jewish allies can redirect attention to Jewish leaders, thinkers, and activists who are doing vital work. By becoming facilitators of dialogue and platforms for Jewish voices, non-Jewish supporters help ensure that Jewish perspectives remain at the forefront of the discourse surrounding antisemitism, Israel, and the Jewish experience.

Showing Up: Everyday Acts of Solidarity

In daily life, allyship can take many forms, from small gestures to more formal actions. Non-Jewish supporters can engage with Jewish culture by attending Jewish events, visiting synagogues, or participating in Jewish festivals. These activities show curiosity and respect for Jewish traditions and help foster a deeper connection with the community.

Another significant way to show up for the Jewish people is to support Jewish businesses, philanthropies, and cultural institutions. In times of crisis, such as during acts of antisemitic violence or after hate crimes, offering both material and emotional support to Jewish communities is invaluable. Whether through donations, attending rallies, or simply checking in with Jewish friends, these actions demonstrate solidarity.

Moreover, non-Jews can use their social and professional platforms to promote Jewish causes and organizations, shining a light on issues that may not always be in the media spotlight. By being vocal in moments of crisis but also steadfast in moments of calm, non-Jewish allies help ensure that Jewish concerns are heard year-round, not just when they make headlines.

Conclusion: A Long-Term Commitment

Supporting Israel and the Jewish people is not a one-time event, but rather a long-term commitment. Effective allyship requires continuous education, empathy, and action. For non-Jews who believe in Israel’s right to exist and thrive, and who stand with the Jewish people against the rising tide of antisemitism, the path forward is one of active engagement, humble learning, and heartfelt solidarity.

By showing up in everyday life, fostering interfaith dialogue, amplifying Jewish voices, and combating antisemitism, non-Jewish supporters can build bridges that strengthen the ties between their communities and the Jewish people. In doing so, they help create a more just, peaceful, and understanding world for all.