Resources for Responding to Antisemitism and the Violence in Israel
On Saturday, October 7, 2023, Hamas—the Iranian-backed terrorist organization controlling Gaza—launched an unprovoked and vicious surprise attack on innocent Israeli citizens. Over 1,300 Israeli children, families, and elderly have been murdered or kidnapped since that day. It was the single deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.
On Sunday, October 8, 2023, the Israeli government declared war against Hamas.
“Families hid their fear for hours and hours, desperately trying to keep their children quiet to avoid drawing attention. And thousands of wounded, alive but carrying with them the bullet holes and the shrapnel wounds and the memory of what they endured…It’s abhorrent…This is terrorism…But sadly, for the Jewish people, it’s not new.”
The JFCS Holocaust Center is steadfast in our mission to combat antisemitism through education. These acts of violence and the response to them have been consistent with the stages of genocide that we teach about, and that is deeply concerning. We are heartbroken for all of the families who are experiencing this horrifying violence and know that this is a painful time for many people in our local community. As we witness the rampant spread of misinformation, we offer a pillar of support and guidance for educators, parents, students, and community members who are wondering how best to respond. Read on for a range of educational resources, expert guidance and support, and opportunities to help.
Resources for Educators
Support for Classroom Discussion on the Hamas-Israel War (Institute for Curriculum Services)
Letter to Superintendents and Trustees across the Bay Area (JCRC Bay Area)
Contact us to schedule a meeting with a member of the JFCS Holocaust Center to receive guidance and resources for your school.
Talking to Children about the Violence in Israel
Talking to Children About the Violence in Israel (JFCS Center for Children & Youth)
Talking to Children about Antisemitism and Hate Crimes (JFCS Center for Children & Youth)
How to Talk to Kids About Violence, Crime, and War (Common Sense Media)
How To Talk to Children About Israel Today (The Jewish Education Project)
JFCS’ Center for Children and Youth provides counseling for kids and teens and expert guidance for parents. If you would like counseling or support, call 1-888-927-0839 or visit ccy.jfcs.org
Background and History
We Stand With Israel (ADL)
A Background on Hamas (ADL)
7 Ways Some Anti-Israel Protests Have Spread Antisemitism (AJC)
You Are Not Alone
Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS) offers expert counseling for people of all ages, guidance for parents, and emotional support. If you or someone you care about would benefit from counseling or support, please call JFCS at 415-449-3700.
We stand in unity, and we work and pray for peace.
*Photo taken by Dr. Anita Friedman leading Senator Alex Padilla’s delegation to Kfar Aza, summer 2023