Symposium on Jewish-Muslim Entanglements

 The horrendous war on Gaza continues to strain relationships between Jewish and Muslim communities in the U.S. As much of American public opinion often links these communities to the struggle between Jews and Arabs in the Middle East, friends and allies can become hesitant to speak out of fear that they might jeopardize the relationships they have built and nurtured. The aftermath of October 7th has further complicated this dynamic, affecting everything from personal friendships to broader social, economic, and political spheres. The developments in Israel-Palestine have significantly affected free speech and the ways in which communities pass judgment on each other. The condemnation of Israeli policies toward Palestinians is met by a silencing and accusations of anti-Semitism, equating critical views of Israel with jeopardizing the safety of Jewish people worldwide.

On the other hand, discussing Jewish-Muslim relations without addressing the issue of Israel-Palestine can be seen as sidestepping major issues or being complacent about the suffering of Palestinians. Our conversation will delve into the entangled history of Jews and Muslims, asking if a shared past of intertwined lives can offer a path forward. Can we find a sense of solidarity and common purpose that has previously helped both communities through difficult times? By examining the historical record, we will seek out themes and ideals that resonate with both Jews and Muslims today, helping them to view their intercommunal relationship through a new lens. This panel will explore how strengthening these ties—by engaging in difficult conversations during hard times—is not only a morally uplifting goal but a crucial step in countering the rising threats of white supremacy, Islamophobia, and anti-Semitism in America.