Joint Statement: On Senator Scott Wiener’s Usage of the Term “Genocide”

We are deeply disappointed that Senator Scott Wiener posted a video in response to last week’s congressional debate that accuses Israel of committing genocide. We recognize that Senator Wiener has been a strong supporter of the Jewish community throughout the Israel-Hamas war and his many years of public service, and that he has directly experienced antisemitic attacks simply for being Jewish.

Unfortunately, Senator Wiener’s newly stated position is both incorrect and lacks moral clarity.

The diminishment and weaponization of the term “genocide” in this context has been deeply painful for our community, given our own historical experiences with the Holocaust. Since October 7, 2023, Jews at home and around the world have continued to experience relentless targeting and scapegoating, including acts of deadly violence. All too often, those harboring antisemitic views have used the war to justify their hatred of our community.

The devastation throughout this war – including the loss of life in Gaza and Southern Israel – has been felt by us all. Yet framing this conflict in reductionist and inflammatory terms fuels further hostility toward our community.

We believe that words matter. We call on the Senator and our elected, civic, and education leaders to recognize and reflect on the consequences of their words in this fraught and polarizing environment.

A Joint Statement From:

American Jewish Committee
JCRC Bay Area
Jewish Family & Children’s Services Holocaust Center
Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California (JPAC)
SF Jews in School

This statement is not intended to support or oppose any candidate for public office.