12-Steps for Fighting Jew-Hatred

1. Name the reality

Acknowledge that antisemitism is real, persistent, and not caused by Jewish behavior — and that ignoring it makes it more powerful.

You’re not “imagining it,” and you’re not responsible for it.

2. Accept that individuals can’t fix it alone

Recognize that no single person or community can defeat antisemitism by themselves.

This pushes against burnout, isolation, and “if only I explained better” thinking.

3. Commit to something larger than yourself

Decide to align with shared values: truth, Jewish survival, human dignity, democracy, or collective Jewish responsibility (arevut).

For some, this is Jewish tradition; for others, it’s justice, history, or community.

4. Take an honest internal inventory

Examine:

  • Where fear has silenced you

  • Where rage has consumed you

  • Where internalized antisemitism may linger

  • Where trauma is driving reactions

This is about clarity, not self-accusation.

5. Speak the truth in trusted spaces

Share fears, anger, confusion, and mistakes with trusted people or communities.

Antisemitism thrives in isolation; resilience grows in connection.

6. Let go of harmful coping patterns

Become willing to release responses that hurt you or the cause:

  • Doom-scrolling

  • Constant arguing online

  • Total disengagement

  • Self-hatred or denial

7. Choose healthier responses

Replace them with:

  • Strategic advocacy

  • Education where it matters

  • Boundaries where it doesn’t

  • Jewish pride and visibility when safe

8. Acknowledge fractured relationships

Identify relationships damaged by:

  • Political polarization

  • Silence from former allies

  • Community infighting

This includes grief over people you thought would stand with you.

9. Seek repair where possible — without self-erasure

Have honest conversations when safe and worthwhile.
But do not apologize for Jewish existence, Israel’s right to exist, or self-defense.

Repair ≠ appeasement.

10. Practice ongoing awareness

Regularly check:

  • Am I informed or overwhelmed?

  • Am I effective or just reactive?

  • Am I grounded in values or stuck in outrage?

11. Strengthen moral and emotional grounding

Use:

  • Jewish learning

  • Meditation or prayer

  • History

  • Community rituals

  • Therapy or peer groups

This step is about endurance.

12. Stand publicly and help others

Support others facing antisemitism, educate when strategic, mentor younger Jews/allies, and model resilience.

The goal isn’t to win every argument — it’s to ensure Jewish continuity, dignity, and safety.