What is antisemitism?
UEA adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, in line with the UK Government and United Nations recommendations.
Antisemitism is a form of discrimination and is not acceptable.
It can be understood as a perception of, or hostility towards, Jewish people that may be expressed as hatred. It can affect Jewish individuals, their property, or Jewish community institutions and places of worship.
What can antisemitism look like?
Antisemitism can take many forms. It may be expressed through words, behaviour, or actions, both in person and online.
Examples can include:
- Calling for or justifying harm towards Jewish people
- Making false, harmful, or stereotypical claims about Jewish people or Jewish communities
- Suggesting that Jewish people control governments, the media, or financial systems
- Blaming Jewish people for actions or events they are not responsible for
- Denying or distorting the Holocaust, including questioning whether it happened
- Suggesting that the Holocaust was exaggerated or invented
- Claiming that Jewish people are more loyal to Israel than to their own country
- Denying Jewish people the right to self-determination
- Using antisemitic symbols, imagery, or language
- Comparing Israeli policies to those of the Nazis
- Holding all Jewish people responsible for the actions of the Israeli government
This is not a full list. Something can still be antisemitic even if it is not included here.
Antisemitism and discussion of Israel
It is important to understand that criticism of Israel or its government is not, in itself, antisemitic.
For example:
- It is not antisemitic to criticise the policies or actions of the Israeli government
- It is not antisemitic to hold Israel to the same standards as other countries
However, language or behaviour may be considered antisemitic if it targets Jewish people more broadly, or uses harmful stereotypes, assumptions, or double standards.
How you might feel
Experiencing antisemitism can have a significant emotional and psychological impact. You might feel:
- Upset, distressed, or unsafe
- Isolated or excluded
- Angry or frustrated
- Unsure whether what happened was acceptable
These feelings are valid, and support is available.