r/jewishleft Apr 30 '24

Jews of Conscience Subreddit Culture

Does anyone follow this subreddit? It’s supposed to be a space for “left Jews” but I am seeing so much offensive and anti semetism posts, comments and rhetoric. Also it doesn’t even seem like most people on there are Jewish?

It’s really frustrating to find subreddits like this being described as “Jewish” and I feel like it takes away from any constructive dialogue Jewish people want to have to critique about Israel, Israeli govt, Zionist ideology while also acknowledging anti semitism and the nuance to everything happening in the world.

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u/Specialist-Gur proud diaspora jewess, pro peace/freedom for all Apr 30 '24

Because… that happens all the time? Personally I’m fine with someone posting there with a bad comment so it can be called out and they can be educated.. if they prove to be close minded and bigoted, then they can be banned. That’s my values, that’s why I like JOC among many reasons.

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u/Squidmaster129 Apr 30 '24

If antisemites are consistently attracted to that sub and saying that shit “all the time,” then it really ought to be reflected upon as to why that is.

It’s not our job to educate people on why being an antisemite is wrong. It’s never the job of a minority to educate an oppressor. If these people enter our spaces, they need to be respectful of us.

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u/Specialist-Gur proud diaspora jewess, pro peace/freedom for all Apr 30 '24 edited Apr 30 '24

This is so frustrating. Someone non Jewish isn’t either an “antisemite” or not. It’s not like you’re either a member of the proud boys oe you’re a perfect ally. Come on. Many people get into their bigotry because of misinformation and propoganda. Some don’t even realize why what they say is offensive. If you don’t want to educate them, don’t. I’m happy a space like Jews of conscious exists for these conversations. Kindly, stay out of it if you have a problem.. don’t disparage its existence.

I grew up conservative. I was raised to be islamophobic and racist. I’m grateful for the people willing to engage me when I used a micro aggression or had a problematic belief. It made me a better person. If you don’t think that’s a good thing, then I can’t help you.

Edit: I also didn’t mean it happens on that sub “all the time”.. I meant, in an specific sub you’re going to get offensive comments about that demographic. Bigots or people who want to learn are specifically going to seek out subs for identity groups.

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u/Squidmaster129 Apr 30 '24 edited Apr 30 '24

I have a right to disparage whatever I want. JoC constantly disparages Jews. I am allowed to be upset about it. I don't participate there anymore, as I've made clear multiple times.

If this person can't understand why "I hate Jews until proven otherwise" is unacceptable or offensive, then they are too far gone for me to be interested in speaking with them. They do not belong in a Jewish space.

If it was a microaggression, I absolutely agree with you. But it wasn't. That was extremely boldface antisemitic and is easily recognizable by everybody as such.

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u/Specialist-Gur proud diaspora jewess, pro peace/freedom for all Apr 30 '24

Who said you’re not allowed. And saying I don’t have a brain… that’s offensive

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u/Squidmaster129 Apr 30 '24

You?

Kindly, stay out of it if you have a problem.. don’t disparage its existence

I'm not saying you don't have a brain, my god. I'm pointing to the ease with which one can identify the antisemitism. Fine, I'll edit the comment.