The Rising Tide of Anti-Semitism

The following is a letter to the editor that I wrote, which appeared in The New York Times on August 26, 2014, in which I offer an assessment of the recent increase in anti-Semitism around the globe:

The Rising Tide of Anti-Semitism

To the Editor:

Re “Why Jews Are Worried” (Op-Ed, Aug. 21):

Deborah E. Lipstadt did an admirable job noting the distinctions between the anti-Semitism of the Nazi era in the 1930s and the increased level of anti-Semitism we are witnessing today.

Although the impetus for the various anti-Semitic acts may be distinct from one another, the common denominator is that they are all fueled by an innate sense of animosity toward one particular religious group. That hatred is compounded by the fact that anti-Semitism is becoming not just acceptable (to some) but also quite routine.

This brazen assault on freedom of religion is particularly troubling and runs counter to the democratic ideals of a civilized society. The recent uptick in anti-Semitism is akin to a conflagration that is becoming increasingly difficult to extinguish.

As Jews, we do not always need to press the panic button, but we must sound the alarm so the international community takes heed of the acute nature of this growing and disturbing problem.

N. AARON TROODLER
Teaneck, N.J., Aug. 21, 2014