Trump’s Travel Ban Weaponizes Antisemitism, Doesn’t Protect Jews

New Jewish Narrative unequivocally opposes the Trump administration’s new travel ban targeting individuals from several Muslim-majority countries. This action is a continuation of discriminatory policies that undermine American values and once again weaponizes attacks against American Jews to justify bigotry.

Overwhelmingly, American Jews are descendants of immigrants and refugees who sought safety and freedom in the United States. We recognize the profound harm caused by policies that single out communities based on religion or national origin. We will not stay silent at this moment. We stand in solidarity with Muslim communities and with all those affected by this hateful policy.

Since entering office, President Trump has weaponized antisemitism for his anti-democratic agenda of chilling free speech and silencing academia. His rhetoric connecting this new policy to the violence Jews have experienced is more of the same. It does nothing to help us.

“Only by peering through the looking-glass can anybody think that by discriminating against Muslims, American Jews are somehow made safer,” said Hadar Susskind, President and CEO of New Jewish Narrative. “We face real and dangerous antisemitism in this country. But instead of working to address the problem, President Trump plays on antisemitism as a rhetorical pawn to justify his xenophobia. American Jews will not be exploited. We will not be gaslit. We must respond by calling out his lie, taking real action against antisemitism, and opposing this needless Travel Ban.”