To the Editor,
The current wave of discussion concerning the Student Senate president has left me both disturbed and bewildered. While I agree that Ms. Marzec has the right to express herself in an open society, I am shocked at the symbolism of her message (more on this later) and the absence of substantive discussion on the situation in Gaza. There has been a marked absence of dialogue on the history of the Gaza Strip, the Israeli withdrawal, the subsequent takeover of Gaza by Hamas and their refusal to accept Israel’s right to exist. What is also overlooked is the tacit approval of Israeli policy by many Arab states (including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan), so there are strange bedfellows connected with this chapter of the conflict. Those who are interested in political activism concerning Middle Eastern politics should take a basic history course. The complexity of the conflict is more than simply watching Israeli or Palestinian missiles hitting civilian populations on television.
I would also like to address the attacks on Rabbi Leshaw. Anyone who knows Danielle also admires her unrelenting compassion for social justice. Not only has she supported LGBT and women’s rights, issues related to regional poverty and other progressive causes, she has also written in the Jewish press about her disillusionment with Israeli policies in the occupied territories. She is a leader of the small Athens Jewish community, and has the responsibility to address issues relevant to us. She believes, as I do, that Ms. Marzec crossed the line. Many members of the American Jewish community (along with President Obama) disagree with Likud policies in the West Bank and Gaza, and many are members of organizations that voice responsible and thoughtful opposition. Her contributions to the Athens area and students at Ohio University, as well as to progressive causes, should be applauded. She has a right to voice her thoughtful opinion and her dismay with Ms. Marzec's actions.
Growing up Jewish in the United States is different than growing up as a Christian. As a small minority, our life experiences, culture and value systems are unique. Unlike Europe and the Middle East, the United States has provided an environment of opportunity and freedom for Jews. However, we are alert to signs of anti-Semitism, as the Holocaust is ever present in our collective memories. If you are a member of the “tribe” you understand what I mean. When you visit the Holocaust Museum or a Concentration Camp, you don’t just feel appalled and sad, you see your own children being fed into the gas chambers and ovens. We often see the world through a different lens.
For Jews of my generation, this is an ever-present reality. This is what makes Marzec’s video extremely disturbing. The blood libel is one of the great symbols of anti-Semitism in Europe and has been adapted into the educational systems of numerous Middle Eastern countries. The myth follows that Jews attacked and slaughtered Christian children (more recently Muslim youngsters) and used their blood to bake Passover matzos. While the blood libel symbolism may seem absurd, it was used successfully in Nazi Germany as one of many justifications to slaughter 6 million Jews. It continues to be taught to children in many madrasas (religious schools), including those run by Hamas in Gaza. Perhaps unknowingly, Ms. Marzec borrowed one of history’s great symbols of anti-Semitism, BLOOD, to make a political statement. Is she anti-Semitic? I for one can’t answer that question, but certainly her message is. Theatrics are no substitute for reflective thinking and substantive discussion.
As readers are likely unaware, anti-Jewish incidents have dramatically increased worldwide since the start of the latest Gaza conflict. I believe it is reasonable for people to first get the facts and then engage in civil discussion. For those of you that have not experienced it, life in Palestine and Israel is very different than how we live in the United States. I have been very fortunate to have experienced this, and befriended both Palestinians and Israelis. However, seeing the connection between Jews and blood crosses the line. Whether or not you agree, understand that these images represent more than disagreement with current Israeli policy. So learn the issues folks, this conflict will continue well past our lifetimes.
Steve Safran is a Professor Emeritus at Ohio University.
