Full Breakdown
Natan Sharansky Advocates for Jewish Identity Amid Rising Antisemitism
2/11/2026, 5:31:11 AM
The Call for Jewish Education and Identity
Natan Sharansky, an Israeli politician and former chairman of the Executive of the Jewish Agency, emphasizes the importance of Jewish education and identity in the face of rising antisemitism. In a recent interview with The Jerusalem Post, Sharansky reflected on his experiences as a Jewish child in the Soviet Union, where he faced systemic antisemitism without the support of cultural traditions or identity. He stated, “To succeed as a Jew is to survive,” highlighting the pressure to excel academically as a means of countering discrimination.
Sharansky's perspective shifted after the Six-Day War, which sparked a renewed interest in Jewish identity among Soviet Jews. He noted that this awakening allowed many to connect with their heritage and express a desire to immigrate to Israel. He described freedom as the ability to express one's thoughts without self-censorship, a realization he embraced upon moving to Israel.
The Changing Landscape of Jewish Advocacy
During his tenure as Israel's interior minister, Sharansky observed a troubling trend among Jewish students in American universities. He noted that many felt compelled to hide their support for Israel due to fears of career repercussions. “It’s not 30 years ago in Moscow University!” he remarked, expressing concern over the climate of fear that has emerged on campuses. He referred to this environment as a “battle for the future of the Jewish people,” emphasizing that the survival of Jewish identity hinges on the ability to speak openly.
Sharansky's views on this issue have evolved, particularly following the events of October 7, which he described as a turning point that made the challenges faced by Jewish students more tangible. He criticized the progressive organizations that many Jews believed were allies, stating, “And it was all wrong.” Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism that more students are beginning to voice their opinions without fear.
The Role of the Yael Foundation
Sharansky recently participated in an awards ceremony for the Yael Foundation, which aims to enhance Jewish education in the Diaspora. He praised the foundation for its efforts to teach modern Jewish victories alongside historical narratives, asserting that it is crucial to instill a sense of pride in Jewish identity among children. He stated, “We have to speak all the time about the optimistic side of our state,” acknowledging the historical adversities faced by the Jewish people while emphasizing their resilience and ongoing contributions to society.
He encouraged Jewish youth to engage with their families about the struggles faced by Soviet Jews and the collective efforts that led to their liberation. “For 25 years, hundreds of thousands of American Jews wanted to travel to the Soviet Union to demonstrate,” he recalled, underscoring the power of grassroots activism in effecting change.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
Sharansky remains optimistic about the future of the Jewish people, believing that their unique history of survival and resilience offers hope. He stated, “You will not find anything like this,” referring to the Jewish experience of rebuilding and thriving after centuries of adversity. His advocacy for a strong Jewish identity and education continues to resonate as a vital response to contemporary challenges facing the Jewish community.
