How do we respond to antisemitism?

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How do we respond to antisemitism? by Samson Nderitu from Kenya

Samson Nderitu from Kenya is a 4th-year Rabbinical student at Ziegler and son-in-law of Abayudaya Rabbi Gershom—this profound article bridges Jewish pride, antisemitism, and our international efforts.

At its core, antisemitism seeks to intimidate Jews into abandoning their identity, traditions, and faith. It attempts to make Jews stop being Jews. Yet this effort is ultimately futile when we understand what Judaism truly represents.

Judaism is not only a religion but a guide to meaningful and ethical living. It teaches responsibility, compassion, and purpose. The Torah advocates for humanity and promotes the value of life for all living beings. The idea of Jews as the “chosen people” is not about superiority, but responsibility—the duty to lead by example through Torah teachings and rabbinic guidance. The goal is not isolation, but to model a way of living that others may learn from and embrace.

Despite repeated suffering caused by antisemitism, Jews have never given up. The reason is clear: Judaism is a treasure that sustains identity, resilience, and hope. It is something to be protected and passed on to future generations. Antisemitism attempts to deny the freedom to live according to one’s beliefs, but Jewish history—especially the memory of slavery in Mitzrayim—reminds us not to bow to forces that seek to oppress or erase us.

Judaism calls us to become better people and to contribute positively to the world. It cannot be abandoned, because it is both a personal guide and a collective legacy. In the face of rising antisemitism, the response must be resilience, commitment, and faith. Through this, Judaism continues to serve not only the Jewish people, but the betterment of humanity as a whole.

Written by Samson Nderitu from Kenya

“How do we respond to antisemitism?” published in the July 2026, Inaugural Edition of Catalyst.