Avi Benlolo: We Jews aren't going anywhere, no matter how much you hate us

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Dear World, enough with your slander and defamation.

We’re fed up with your ghettos, crusades, inquisitions, and genocides. You were silent then, as you are now, when we’re attacked, beaten, raped, and murdered. Your denial, distortion, and collaboration with those wishing us harm have become unbearable.

Despite our substantial contributions to society, you persist in attempting to marginalize and ostracize us, solely because we are Jewish. Take Leah Goldstein, for instance — a shining star, multiple award-winner, and the first female in Race Across America history to secure first place overall in the solo division. Yet, you disinvite her from speaking at a women’s event. Why? Because she defended Israel’s freedom and democracy and/or because she is Jewish?

World, your boundless hatred, particularly on the international stage, was evident just two weeks ago when you falsely accused us of genocide at the International Court of Justice. This, despite our right to self-defence against Palestinian murderers. Your quick condemnation sharply contrasts with your lethargic or nonexistent response to conflicts involving other nations. Where were you when Syria was obliterating 500,000 of its own people?

Throughout history, you have attempted everything to eradicate us. But in case you haven’t noticed, we’ve had enough, and we are fighting back. We are doing so in dignity and with this history in mind. Are you shocked that we, the supposedly weak and destitute that you have subjugated, have taken control of our destiny?

Your silence and complicity after the murder of our children and the rape of our women on Oct. 7 have given rise to a new generation. In case you haven’t noticed, our youth are proudly wearing the Jewish Star of David around their necks. We are strengthening our Zionism and commitment to the State of Israel. Unlike you, we are not afraid.

Discrimination against us is a daily occurrence — in the workplace, neighbourhoods, businesses, media, university campuses, unions, and the international arena. Yet, like Leah, we persevere, our heads held high, we focus on building a future. Israel’s success stands as a testament to our ability to rise above the hate you give.

We care less about what you think. We will defend ourselves at the ICJ, fight back at the United Nations, in the media, and on university campuses. We will not allow your historic hate without pushing back. Rally in support of terror against us, call for our demise — adults who should know better about protecting their children should find that embarrassing.

This week, I walked the grounds of where the Nova Party was held where you slaughtered almost 300 of our best and brightest. Their ashes are seeped into the ground. It reminded me of the grounds of Auschwitz, Majdanek, Sobibor and dozens of death camps where we were also gassed and burned.

We’ve had enough of your shameful behavior, dear world. Our heads are held high despite your unfair attacks. Maybe you can learn something from Leah Goldstein’s closing plea: “I hope that humans can learn to treat each other with respect and love.”

National Post

Avi Benlolo is the founder and CEO of the Abraham Global Peace Initiative.