Full Breakdown
Opposition to Jewish Psychologists' Association Sparks Controversy
2/18/2026, 5:16:43 AM
Coalition's Stance Against Jewish Representation
The Coalition of National Racial and Ethnic Psychological Associations (CONREPA) has publicly opposed the recognition of the Association of Jewish Psychologists (AJP) as an Ethnic Psychological Association within the American Psychological Association (APA). The coalition argues that the majority of Jewish Americans identify as white and that Jewish psychologists are not underrepresented in the APA. This statement was endorsed by several organizations, including the Asian American Psychological Association, the American Arab, Middle Eastern and North African Psychological Association, the National Latino/a Psychological Association, the Association of Black Psychologists, and the Society of Indian [Native-American] Psychologists, collectively representing approximately 2,000 members.
CONREPA's statement emphasizes that the seats in Ethnic Psychological Associations were intended for groups that are underrepresented, asserting that Jewish psychologists of color already have representation within existing associations. The coalition further contends that conflating religion, race, and ethnicity obscures the realities of racism and white privilege faced by people of color.
Criticism from Jewish Organizations
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has criticized CONREPA's position, describing it as "indefensible." ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt stated that the coalition's assertion dismisses the complexity of Jewish identity, which encompasses religion, ethnicity, and culture. He emphasized that Jewish psychologists do face discrimination and deserve representation within the APA. Greenblatt's remarks reflect broader concerns regarding antisemitism within the APA, particularly in light of ongoing investigations by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce into reports of harassment against Jewish members.
APA's Response and Ongoing Investigations
The APA has faced scrutiny for its handling of antisemitism allegations, including claims that it failed to adequately address the actions of Dr. Lara Sheehi, a former division president who made antisemitic statements. The APA has initiated listening sessions and formed a Collaborative of Jewish Psychologists in response to these concerns. However, critics argue that the organization's failure to oppose CONREPA's statement undermines these efforts.
The ADL has called for the APA to reject CONREPA's position and formally recognize the AJP, asserting that Jewish mental health professionals require a voice within their professional community. The ongoing investigation into antisemitism at the APA highlights the complexities and challenges surrounding representation and discrimination within the field of psychology.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the extent of antisemitism within the APA, with some sources indicating a rise in antisemitic incidents while others focus on the coalition's claims about Jewish representation. The APA's actions in response to these allegations remain under scrutiny, with critics questioning the effectiveness of its initiatives.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This statement is not just troubling - it is indefensible,” — Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League
- “It reflects a profound and dangerous distortion of Jewish identity and a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of antisemitism. Jewish identity encompasses religion, ethnicity and culture - a complexity that CONREPA's statement dismisses entirely. To suggest that Jewish psychologists do not face discrimination or deserve representation within this group is both factually wrong and harmful.” — Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League
- “EPA seats were intended to address underrepresented groups within APA. Jewish psychologists are not underrepresented within APA.” — Coalition of National Racial and Ethnic Psychological Associations
The controversy surrounding the recognition of the Association of Jewish Psychologists continues to evoke strong responses from various stakeholders, highlighting the intricate dynamics of identity, representation, and discrimination within the psychological community.
