Silence Is Not Safety

Is hiding your identity a sign of cowardice, or is it wisdom? This is a painful question many Jews in Europe are asking themselves today. In cities that once promised freedom, tolerance, and diversity, Jewish communities increasingly feel pressure to become invisible. When people feel forced to hide who they are simply to avoid harassment or violence, something has gone terribly wrong.

This week a municipal debate took place in Amsterdam about antisemitism and the future of Jewish life in the city. What should have been a routine political discussion became something much more emotional and revealing. The debate showed how deeply the problem has penetrated society.

A 15-year-old Jewish boy told a story that left the room silent. His words were so powerful that Amsterdam alderman Melanie van der Horst was moved to tears. The meeting itself had to be held at a secret location because of security concerns. That fact alone says everything about the current climate. If a democratic city must hide a debate about antisemitism, the situation is already deeply troubling.

The young boy explained that after the pogrom of October 7, 2023, everything changed for Jewish students like him. Many of his friends have already left Amsterdam. They no longer see a future there. They feel unsafe and increasingly believe that there is less and less space to live openly as Jews.

His words were simple but heartbreaking. Many of my friends are gone, he said. They do not see a future here anymore. I hope you will make sure the Jewish community can continue to exist in this city.

The room that had........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)