We are living in times were hate is being stood up against, but for the Jewish community, not much is being done. Anti-semitism is so ingrained within our world, that most of the time you don't even know you're being anti-semitic. Because of the lack of education about Jews and anti-semitism, along with the normalization of it, Jews are left by themselves to defend, and stand up against it alone.
To start off, the working definition of anti-semitism, by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance is "Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities."
1. Using the term JAP (Jewish American Princess)
This comes from the stereotype that all Jews are wealthy, which also stems from the stereotype that Jews are cheap. This is calling Jewish women materialistic, which indicates selfishness as well. People also use this term on non-Jews, which then adds to the stereotype that Jews are wealthy, and materialistic.
2. Giving pennies to Jews
This again goes along with stereotyping Jews. This stereotype goes back hundreds of years in history. Historically, Jews were excluded from a lot of economic opportunity, such as owning land, which made them more opportunistic in finding ways to make money. This is where this stereotype comes from.
3. Assuming Jews are in Power
The wealth stereotype is a large part of anti-semitism. Believing that Jews have power, or control the government just contributes to the stereotypes that stemmed from oppression.
4. "You have a big nose, so you must be Jewish"
Being Jewish is identifying with a religion. While it is more than a religion, and it a cultural identity as well, being Jewish does not mean you look a certain way. Jews come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. :)
5. Denying the Holocaust, or supporting Nazis
While this may seem obvious to you, it is not to a lot of people. Adolf Hitler was responsible for the death of 6 million Jews, and 6 million others who didn't fit his vision of what a normal person should look, or be like. The Holocaust created a lot of pain, and suffering for Jewish people all over the world, and to deny it ever happen is extremely anti-semitic.
While I listed 5 examples of anti-semitism, there are many more. It is important to educate yourself, and improve from there. It is important to stand up against all kinds of hate, even if it is not towards you!
