Resources for Antisemitism and the events of 10/7/23

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We have seen time and time again that tensions in the Middle East can lead to an increase in antisemitic incidents in the U.S., ranging from harassment to violence, targeting Jewish institutions and Jewish individuals.   
 

Why Should I Report? 

While hate or bias crimes, incidents, and discrimination sometimes target specific individuals, they often violate an entire group or community’s sense of safety and belonging. Graffiti on the wall, fliers, anonymous emails, denying services, and language meant to harass individuals convey intolerance that impacts all of us. Reporting is designed to help track hate or bias crimes, incidents, and discrimination, who was targeted, where the incident took place, and support survivors. 
 

If you believe you have been a target of a hate crime or bias incident: 

• If you are in immediate danger call 911! 

• If it is not an emergency, you may submit a complaint or concern in the following ways: 

• Report online at to the Oregon Department of Justice Statewide Bias Response or by phone 1-844-924-2427 

• Community members are advised to report to the Anti-Defamation League if they witness or experience antisemitism  ADL's incident report form 

  

Travel 

The US Department of State has a 24/7 coordinating group communicating with U.S. citizens and providing them assistance through phone calls and an online form.  U.S. citizens seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Israel can fill out THIS FORM or call 1-833-890-9595 or 1-606-641-0131. 

Other links: 

• U.S. Embassy in Israel 

• Ben Gurion International Airport 

• Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) 

  

  

Talking to Kids 

Explaining it to a child can feel borderline impossible. It’s helpful to: 

1. Take the cues from your child 

2. Model calm 
3. Be reassuring 
4. Help children express their feelings 
5. Be developmentally appropriate 

If you are struggling, as many of us are, to navigate conversations about events in Israel with your children or grandchildren, links and resources are available on the PJ Library website, including:

• General information about Israel

• Understanding the map of Israel

• How to talk to kids about scary situations

• How to talk to your kids about antisemitism

• The Jewish Social Services Agency (JSSA) have provided us with an excellent resource from the Child-Mind Institute with tips for speaking to our children about these horrific events.

• Kveller has published a guide on "How to Talk to Kids About What's Happening in Israel Right Now" based on the age of the child.

• The ADL (Anti-Defamation League) also has a series of "Table Talk: Family Conversations about Current Events."   

 

Resources for Educators 

As the events unfold, our students are exposed to the horrors of war through the news, social media, and conversations with their peers. Help students process the devastation, gain a deeper understanding of the conflict, and access the tools to help combat antisemitism. Share these resources to assist in navigating these difficult discussions.   Resources for Educators 

  

Other Resources 

Better Help, the mental health-care provider is offering six months of free online therapy to people “who have been impacted by the war in Israel.”