Jewish Parenting in an Age of Online Antisemitism

Antisemitism and other forms of racism and bigotry have a persistent and robust presence online. On TikTok alone, antisemitic comments increased 912 percent from 2020 to 2021. In the United States, 33% of Americans who responded to a 2021 ADL survey reported that they experienced identity-based harassment online. Such harassment can harm the mental health of those whose identities are targeted, making them feel fearful, anxious, and alone.

Parents instinctively want to shelter their children. Yet, so much is out of parental control, especially in an age of social media and online gaming. Children are being exposed to the larger world and, along with it, are encountering hate and bigotry earlier and with greater ease than in previous generations. What tools and strategies can parents and educators provide to better prepare children to encounter these spaces?

Recognizing and identifying online antisemitism in both visual and text forms are critical steps in effectively responding to it, which requires an understanding of the tropes, dog whistles and conspiracy theories that fuel antisemitism. Providing young people with the tools to critically analyze and deconstruct antisemitic messaging online will help them navigate virtual spaces where they will almost certainly encounter antisemitism as well as other forms of hatred. Finally, it’s essential to help young people identify both effective and ineffective ways to respond to and combat online hate.

During the webinar, we will: 

• Explore different manifestations of online antisemitism
• Consider how online hate impacts young people, our communities and society at large
• Learn effective strategies for combating online antisemitism