[net.religion.jewish] How and when to respond to Antisemitism

samet@sfmag.UUCP (A.I.Samet) (03/25/85)

> In this context, a general question recurs: when to react or when to
> keep silent...
>                                               M. Fingerhut

There are at least two organizations in this country  which  deal
with  this  type  of  problem  and  probably  could offer advice,
materials, and other help.  One is the Anti Defamation League  of
the  Bnai  Brith.   The other is the Simon Wiesenthal Center (Los
Angeles?).  The  Wiesenthal  Center  produced  an  award  winning
documentary  on  the  Holocaust  and  is  generally active in the
media.

I recall reading that Bnai Brith has  found  by  experience  that
media  responses  to  some  types  of  antisemitic activity ,e.g.
desecration  of   cemetaries,   actually   reinforces   continued
activity.  Sickies  can  be gratified by publicity, even if it is
negative. Since these organizations have developed strategies  to
combat   antisemitic   propaganda,   it's   worth  hearing  their
"professional" opinion. 
                                Yitzchok Samet