Being Pro-Palestine Is Not Anti-Semitism: Separating Justice from Misinformation

Allow me to put on my Educator hat for a brief moment and turn this space into my classroom. Let’s talk about what it means to be Pro-Palestine and why standing in solidarity with Palestine is not the same as being anti-Semitic. 

The History of the Palestinian Struggle

 For decades, Palestinians have faced systemic displacement, occupation, and violence as a result of Israel's policies. These actions, rooted in colonial expansion, have led to the loss of homes, land, and lives. The world has witnessed the suffering of Palestinians through the blockade of Gaza, the expansion of illegal settlements, and countless human rights violations. To stand with Palestine is to stand against these injustices and for the universal right to self-determination, dignity, and freedom. 

 What Being Pro-Palestine Is Not

 Let me be clear: being Pro-Palestine does not equate to being anti-Semitic. Anti-Semitism is hatred, discrimination, or prejudice against Jewish people, and it has no place in any movement for justice. In fact, many Jewish individuals and organizations actively oppose Israel’s occupation of Palestine and stand in solidarity with Palestinians. Are they anti-Semitic for doing so? Of course not. To conflate criticism of Israeli policies with anti-Semitism is a dangerous and false narrative that undermines both the fight against anti-Semitism and the movement for Palestinian liberation. 

Our Nation’s Current State

 Tragically, in a country entrenched in privilege, power, and white supremacy, being Pro-Palestine has been weaponized as a tool to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, silence dissent, and even cost individuals their jobs, all under the guise of combating anti-Semitism. This misuse of anti-Semitism as a shield to avoid accountability for oppressive policies is not only dishonest but deeply harmful. 

Why I Stand with Palestine

 As a Black man in America, I see the parallels between the Palestinian struggle and the fight for Black Liberation. The systemic oppression, state violence, and denial of basic human rights mirror the experiences of Black Americans throughout history. My solidarity with Palestine is rooted in a shared fight against oppression and a commitment to justice for all. But let me be clear: my stance is in no way anti-Semitic, nor does it spur hatred or discrimination toward Jewish people. Being Pro-Palestine means standing against oppression, not against Jewish people. It means advocating for human rights, justice, and equality. To my fellow educators, activists, and community members: let’s continue to educate, dismantle false narratives, and build bridges of understanding in the pursuit of collective liberation. 

Signed, 

A Radical Educator.