Recognizing and Responding to Antisemitism in Schools
A Webinar for Educators
Monday, January 9, 2023, 1:00 PM PST / 4:00 EST
Antisemitism poses a threat to the security of Jewish communities and individuals globally. Social media and other online platforms have amplified hateful messages and conspiracy theories that often target and scapegoat Jews and Jewish communities, leading to a situation where open antisemitism and Holocaust denial and distortion have entered mainstream discourses, including among young people. Its proliferation drives the spread of violent extremist ideologies and undermines democratic values and human rights.
Educational systems are an essential element in any comprehensive effort to address antisemitism and other forms of intolerance and discrimination. Schools and teachers can play a significant role in raising young people’s awareness of the nature of antisemitism and its effects; in building their resilience to prejudice, extremist narratives, conspiracy thinking; and the toxic ideologies that drive discrimination and hatred.
To inform the effort to address antisemitism in schools, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), have partnered with USC Shoah Foundation – Institute for Visual History and Education (USC SFI) and the American Jewish Committee (AJC) to make professional development available for educators. This two-part webinar will provide educators with the information and tools needed to recognize and respond to antisemitism in schools.
As a result of this webinar, educators will:
- Deepen their understanding of antisemitism and its impact and consequences
- Explore the challenges and opportunities to address antisemitism
- Critically reflect on the educator's role and responsibility to address antisemitism
