I’d like to point out a couple of points in the aftermath of today’s demonstrations in support of the Palestinians.

First: do we need to rethink our use of the terms “antisemitism” & “antisemitic” ?

A dictionary definition of the word “Semite” defines the term as not just Jews but also all Arabic people as well. What is really being dealt are differences in belief rather than differences in race.

The other thing is that no one (as far as I can see) ever discusses the history of Palestine. How many people know anything about the Balfour Declaration 1917?  It was an acknowledgment by the British government that there was a need for a homeland for the world’s Jews. So far, so good. Unfortunately no one asked the people who were already there in Palestine what they thought of this arrangement.  Not a good way to start the movement towards a new nation or two.

Bear in mind too that this is comparatively modern history. Think back to the Roman conquest of Judaea & the result of this. Even before this the Jewish people were often dispersed- hence the word “diaspora”.

The Jews have been dispossessed for many centuries & for many reasons: all these things have contributed to an almighty mess in the region. 

Please consider the influence that history has on all areas of human endeavour.

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