Jewish educators told to condemn Israel before attending conference: report
New York Post • • world
Key Points:
- Around 100 Jewish educators from the US and Israel canceled a study trip to Italy after being asked to sign a statement condemning Israel, linked to protests by parents associated with the host organization, Reggio Children.
- The educators were required to distance themselves from Israel's actions in Gaza and human rights violations, a demand that was perceived as profiling based on their support for Israel and the Israel Defense Forces.
- The incident reflects broader concerns about rising antisemitism in Italy, where social acceptance of Jewish identity is reportedly shrinking and a significant minority view attacks on Jews as justifiable.
- Italian politician Ivan Scalfarotto condemned the demand as antisemitic, stating that requiring Jews to denounce Israeli government policies based on their Jewish identity is discriminatory.
- Educators expressed regret over the canceled trip, noting it was a lost opportunity for professional enrichment and highlighting the impact of global antisemitism on their community.
