Stand up—Defending Destiny matters more than ever

I never imagined that writing “Defending Destiny: Israel, Antisemitism, & the Fight for Legitimacy” would feel so urgent. But the world is changing quickly. Antisemitism, which many thought was fading, has come roaring back. It’s not just overt acts of hate that concern me. It’s the subtle, insidious ways Israel’s legitimacy is questioned daily—in the media, on campuses, in the grocery store. The double standards are everywhere. This is not just an academic issue.

“Defending Destiny” is my response to this disturbing trend. I felt compelled to write it, driven by a sense of duty after October 7th. The book delves deep into the history of antisemitism and Israel. But it doesn’t stop there. It connects the past to the present, showing how these old hatreds have morphed into new forms. The goal is simple. It’s a call to action. A path forward to peace.

We can’t afford to ignore this any longer. The stakes are too high. Things are not getting better. Israel’s right to exist is under constant threat. And it’s a threat that extends far beyond Israel. Jews around the globe are being targeted. When any nation’s legitimacy is challenged, it sets a dangerous precedent. It erodes the foundations of global justice. That’s why this fight matters to everyone.

To make an impact, though, I need your help. I’ve launched a Kickstarter campaign to support “Defending Destiny.” But this isn’t just about funding a book. It’s about bringing the book’s message to communities across the world. The campaign will help fund events—talks, readings, and discussions. These are the spaces where we foment change.

Dialogue is powerful. It can shift perspectives. It can challenge entrenched beliefs. But to have those conversations, we need to get this message out there. That’s where you come in. By backing this campaign, you’re not just supporting a book. You’re helping to spark vital conversations. Antisemitism is a threat to everyone. It’s not just a Jewish issue. When hate flourishes, it impacts us all. We have to stand against it. We must defend truth and justice. Israel’s fight is our fight too.

This book is just the beginning. The real work happens when people engage with its ideas. When they talk about it. When they challenge the narratives of hate. That’s what this Kickstarter campaign is about—creating those opportunities for engagement. It’s about taking a stand.

I’m asking you to join me in this effort. Visit the Kickstarter page. Learn more about the project. Consider lending your support—even if you don’t back the campaign, you can help with these resources. Every contribution, every share, every conversation matters. Together, we can push back against the tide of hate.

Thank you for your support. Let’s make a difference. Let’s defend destiny.

— James