...Our first-ever Translations podcast Shema Session, a behind-the-scenes conversation series featuring Project Shema colleagues as we navigate the complex issues at the heart of our work.
In this inaugural episode, we sit down with our CEO, Oren Jacobson, to explore why, as an antisemitism education organization, Project Shema does not adopt any formal definition of antisemitism. Together, we explore why, in most cases, a formal definition isn't necessary to understand the concerns of the community, including in educational environments and, at times, with policymakers. We also dive into the question on many people's minds: is anti-Zionism antisemitism?
00 - :35 – Introduction
:35 - 2:25 – Kara and Oren - Set up of Conversation
Giving shape to words and how it involves conversations where being wrong is part of the process of work and learning. Disagreement is necessary as it indicates the diversity of the members and ideas represented in the organization.
2:54 - 3:42 – Why Project Shema does not define Antisemitism even though it is central to our work
3:43 - 5:14 – Jewish Harm and Trauma can happen even if something is not antisemitism
5:15 - 7:57 – Antisemitism and micro-invalidations
7:58 - 9:28 – Defining does not address the harm
9:29 - 12:45 – International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Definition Intergovernmental vs Jerusalem Declaration definition and PS’s position as educators
Who is the definition for? How is it helpful?
12:46 - 14:38 – A Guideline is necessary but only as a guideline
14:39 - 18:24 – What is the Role of Defining Antisemitism in promoting Jewish Inclusion?
18:25 - 23:41 – How do we define Antisemitism? And how does Anti-Zionism fit in here?
23:42 - 26:20 – Caring, Curiosity, Empathy and Listening are what PS advocates for
26:21- 27:01 – Recap and Conclusion (Kara)
Resource Referenced:
Yael Silverstein, Caryn Block, “Making the invisible visible: A taxonomy of contemporary antisemitic experiences on college campuses,” Journal of Jewish Education (2025): 1-26.
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Translations is a new initiative from Project Shema exploring how we can approach complex issues with nuance and empathy. Through conversations with leading academics, practitioners, and community voices, this podcast invites listeners to learn alongside us as we translate big questions into deeper understanding. http://projectshema.org/translations