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Antisemitism In High School Athletics: A Growing Concern

Addressing the issue of antisemitism in high school athletics is not a one-time or one-size-fits-all Solution

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In 2021, the Duxbury, Massachusetts High School football team fired the head coach after an investigation discovered that words like “Auschwitz,” “Rabbi” and “Dreidel” were among those used during games to call an audible (change the planned play). Mandatory diversity training was imposed on the team. (Screencap: CBSN)

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Sports have always been a significant part of the high school experience. They promote teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness. However, in recent years, there has been an alarming increase in incidents of antisemitism in high school athletics, a trend that has caught the attention of educators, parents, and students alike.

These incidents of Jew hate not only had a profound impact on the individuals targeted, but also create a culture of intolerance and hate that can spread throughout the entire school community.

One of the most high-profile incidents of antisemitism in high school athletics occurred in 2019, when members of a California high school boys’ water polo team were caught on video giving the Nazi salute and singing a Nazi marching song. The incident sparked widespread outrage and led to the suspension of several team members. However, this is just one of many examples of antisemitism in high school athletics that occur on a regular basis.

In addition to verbal and physical harassment, Jewish athletes may also be subject to exclusion or discrimination. This can take many forms, such as not being given a fair chance to compete or being left out of team events and social gatherings. In some cases, Jewish athletes may be forced to choose between their faith and their sport, such as being asked to compete on a holy day or during a religious holiday.

Antisemitism in high school athletics is not limited to the actions of individual students. There have also been instances of coaches and other adults in positions of authority engaging in or allowing discriminatory behavior. For example, coaches may make insensitive or derogatory comments about Jewish athletes or use language that is meant to demean or marginalize them.  

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The reasons behind these incidents of antisemitism in high school athletics are complex and varied. Sometimes, athletes are influenced by the larger cultural climate of intolerance and hate that can be found online and in other areas of society. Other times, athletes may not fully understand the history and impact of antisemitism and therefore do not fully comprehend the harm their actions and words can cause. Additionally, antisemitism may be perpetuated by a lack of education and awareness around the issue, as well as a lack of consequences for those who engage in such behavior.

The impact of antisemitism on high school athletes can be significant. It can lead to feelings of isolation, alienation, and self-doubt, which can affect an athlete’s performance both on and off the field. It can also cause emotional distress and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety and can even lead to physical health problems. It creates a toxic environment for all involved.

“Videos (from A Florida high school game) depict the victim surrounded, forced to the floor, and kicked him in the face by their cleats – leaving a metal stud lodged in the victim’s eye,” wrote @EndJew Hatred.

So, what can be done to address this growing problem? The first step is to recognize that antisemitism is a real issue in high school athletics and that it must be taken seriously.

First and foremost, schools must take a firm stance against all forms of hate and discrimination, including antisemitism. This means implementing clear policies and consequences for athletes who engage in discriminatory behavior, as well as providing education and training for both athletes and coaches to help prevent such incidents from occurring in the first place.

Additionally, schools can work to create a culture of inclusion and acceptance by promoting diversity and celebrating differences. This may include forming diversity committees, hosting cultural events, and creating opportunities for students to learn about different cultures and religions. 

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It is also important to encourage students who witness acts of antisemitism to speak up and report the behavior to school officials. This can be done through workshops, training sessions, and other educational materials.

It is also important to establish clear policies and procedures for reporting incidents of antisemitism, and to enforce these policies consistently and fairly. By creating a culture of accountability, students can help to prevent future incidents and ensure that everyone feels safe and respected. This can be done by promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of athletic programs, from team composition to coaching staff to fan behavior.

It is also important to provide support and resources for athletes who have experienced antisemitism or other forms of prejudice and discrimination, such as counseling services or peer support groups.

Addressing the issue of antisemitism in high school athletics is not a one-time or one-size-fits-all solution.

It is essential to recognize that addressing antisemitism in high school athletics is just one piece of a larger puzzle. To truly combat hate and discrimination, we must work to create a more inclusive and accepting society at large. This means challenging negative stereotypes, promoting understanding and empathy, and working to create a world in which all people are valued and respected.

Antisemitism in high school athletics is a serious issue that requires a thoughtful and concerted response. It is up to all of us to speak out against antisemitism and work to create a safe and welcoming environment for Jewish students in high school athletics. By taking a firm stance against hate and discrimination, promoting education and awareness, creating a culture of inclusion and acceptance, and holding individuals accountable for their actions, we can help ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in sports and feel a sense of belonging and support within their teams. 

Ron East is an educator, community leader and public speaker. He’s spent a decade teaching in the Jewish and public school systems and spent a significant amount of time in various leadership roles in the not-for-profit sector including Executive Director of Football Manitoba and the Manitoba chapter of CFHU. Ron has published numerous newsletters, award winning magazines and online publications and is currently the Publishing Director of TheJ.Ca.

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Thank you for choosing TheJ.Ca as your source for Canadian Jewish News.

We do news differently!

Our positioning as a Zionist News Media platform sets us apart from the rest. While other Canadian Jewish media are advocating increasingly biased progressive political and social agendas, TheJ.Ca is providing more and more readers with a welcome alternative and an ideological home.

We revealed the incursion of anti-Israel progressive elements such as IfNotNow into our communities. We have exposed the distorted hateful agenda of the “progressive” left political radicals who brought Linda Sarsour to our cities, and we were first to report on many disturbing incidents of Nazi-based hate towards Jews across Canada.

But we can’t do it alone. We need your HELP!

Our ability to thrive and grow in 2020 and beyond depends on the generosity of committed readers and supporters like you.

Monthly support is a great way to help us sustain our operations. We greatly appreciate any contributions you can make to support Jewish Journalism.

We thank you for your ongoing support.

Happy reading!

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