Exploring underpinnings of hate and how to respond to rising antisemitism

Using history, Talmudic sources, Jewish mysticism, and contemporary expert analysis, the course addresses some of the niggling questions we grapple with as individuals and as a community. Why does antisemitism persist? How can we make hate go away? How can we counter Israel-focused antisemitism and prevent our own youth from unwittingly lending their voices to antisemitic agendas?

"Many Jews are anxious about rising antisemitism today and worry about how to respond to it," Rabbi Mendy Bronstein of Chabad of Altamonte Springs told Heritage, "By exploring the mechanics of antisemitism and probing historical strategies for reducing it, this course offers a framework for confronting it head-on with purpose, positivity, and pride."

Informative, interesting, and empowering, Outsmarting Antisemitism is well suited for community leaders and laypersons alike. "All those who care about religious freedom, both Jews and others, confront a disturbing increase in antisemitism worldwide," said Cary Nelson, past president of the American Association of University Professors. "It is no longer enough just to be opposed to antisemitism. We all have to be knowledgeable about its history and current manifestations if we are to be equipped to combat its spread. That is why this course matters."

"What distinguishes the present moment is the rise of antisemitism simultaneously on all fronts," said Natan Sharansky, former refusenik and chairman at the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy. "To succeed in the struggle against these dangerous phenomena, we have to confront antisemitism on all fronts simultaneously. Therefore, this course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute is very important."

The four-week course begins on these dates and is being offered in Altamonte Springs, Longwood, Maitland and the Dr. Phillip's area:

Chabad of Altamonte Springs, 195 S. Westmonte Dr., Ste. 1126, Tuesday, Nov. 2, 7:30-9 p.m.

Nate's Shul, 1701 Markham Woods Rd., Longwood, Tuesday, Nov. 2, 7:30-9 p.m.

Chabad Center of Jewish Life, 7347 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando, Tuesday, Nov. 2, 6:30-8 p.m.

Chabad of Greater Orlando, 708 Lake Howell Rd., Maitland, Wednesday, Oct. 27, 7:30 – 9 p.m.

Like all JLI programs, it is designed to appeal to people at all levels of knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship.

The course will be offered in-person as well as over Zoom. Check the location nearest you for details.

Interested students may visit http://www.myJLI.com for registration and for other course-related information.