Danielle Herschitz works as a team leader at a youth and teen organization, and frequently participates in charity events and fundraisers. In the following article, Danielle Herschitz discusses how to foster a sense of belonging for Jewish young people within their communities.
In the US alone, over 5.8 million adults
identify as Jewish. Moreover, 3.2% of children are Jewish – or live with a Jewish guardian.
However, in another survey by
Pew Research Center, they gathered that roughly half of the Jewish population experience some form of discrimination for their identity or religion – and anti-semitism can be even more distressing for teens who will soon have to navigate the world independently.
But how can people protect the Jewish teens from being outcasted? If they do, how will people reassure them that they have a safe space for them? A community to welcome them?
Below, Danielle Herschitz discusses the importance of inclusive classrooms and communities for Jewish teens.
Danielle Herschitz Explains the Importance of Prioritizing Tolerance, Acceptance, and Inclusivity
In the past few days, conflicts between Israel and the Palestinian militants Hamas rapidly escalated into a deadly war. Though far from the Western countries, many Jewish people feel the tension with the occurrences in the birthplace of Judaism – Israel.
However, Jewish people in the US also feel uneasy. For instance,
CNN reported that unidentified Harvard students released a letter blaming the Israeli regime for the attacks near the Gaza border.
Moreover, a
BBC
article reported that anti-semitic incidents in the UK have grown three times higher since the conflict began.
Children and teens, however, don’t have anything to do with the war happening across the globe. Danielle Herschitz notes that as such, they must not be discriminated against for their religion or identity.
And in a time where all eyes are on the Israeli, Israeli-Americans, and Jewish people, it’s vital to protect the youth from these hostilities – by providing a safe and inclusive environment for Jewish teens.
But how can inclusivity for Jewish teens? Furthermore, how does it help shape their adulthood?
Guardians and Guidance
Teens can look up to almost any adult. But being a role model who’s educated or aware of Jewish culture and traditions is essential.
Jewish teens are more likely to listen to someone who understands why some of them must wear a kippah (religious clothing), why they’re not allowed to eat meat with dairy (kosher), or why they can’t attend an out-of-town activity on a Sunday (Sabbath Day).
Danielle Herschitz says that organizations sometimes overlook these practices – as Judaism is a minority religion in the US.
However, if more adults take the time to understand their traditions, Jewish teens would return the favor by paying attention to them, enabling better communication and time for lessons – ones the teens can use until they’re adults themselves.
Moreover, Jewish teens who feel tolerated or accepted will likely treat others similarly, reports Danielle Herschitz.
Accepting Similarities and Differences
Discrimination doesn’t stop because adults pass down their prejudiced views to children. It then becomes a cycle – unless a generation breaks it.
Therefore, teaching the teens that everyone is different is paramount. Moreover, it’s important to teach the young that they all equally have the right to celebrate their cultures and exercise their religion.
Danielle Herschitz says to allow teens (of different backgrounds) to learn more about each other’s practices better, try organizing weekly activities highlighting their culture's similarities and differences. Such as:
- Bringing a snack that originated in their culture.
- Word-of-the-Day – but in their native language.
- Organizing days when they can wear their traditional clothing.
- Translating English words into their native language and having the teens recite them.
Fostering inclusivity helps Jewish teens understand that they’re accepted for their religion and identity. Furthermore, it teaches them to do the same to others different from them.
Danielle Herschitz says that in addition, forming close ties between guardians and teens can help prepare them for adulthood.
Confidence and Compassion
Teens will experience several first times in their years – experiences that are exciting and nerve-wracking. However, one thing that shouldn’t add to their nervousness is the fear of not having anyone accept them for being Jewish.
Fortunately, Jewish teens with strong community support and inclusive environments to run to aren’t too stressed about being discriminated against.
Danielle Herschitz explains that they’re confident that their community is there for them – as research shows, acts of kindness can boost self-esteem in youths.
Furthermore, making friends is easier for teens with a community that supports them, as they'll most likely extend the acceptance and tolerance – that their community made them feel – to others feeling different, nervous, or lacking confidence.
Conclusion
All teens need a safe and inclusive space for them – where they won’t fear judgment or discrimination against them. And with all the ongoing global crises, reassuring Jewish teens that many accept them for their religion, traditions, and identity is more vital than ever.
Lastly, inclusive environments must consist of adults who will educate them that inclusivity goes both ways. Consistently remind them: don’t feel discouraged by discrimination, and don’t discriminate against anyone.
