Why Combating Antisemitism Must Take Priority Over Border Crisis
- Chadwick Dolgos
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
The United States faces a complex array of challenges, but one issue demands immediate attention above all others: combating antisemitism.
While the border crisis has led to a surge in fentanyl overdoses, human trafficking, and violent crimes, the need to ensure that no one feels unsafe due to their identity must take precedence.
Antisemitism, a very minor threat to the fabric of society, requires a robust response to protect the interests of our greatest ally, Israel, even when those interests diverge from domestic priorities.
The border situation, though concerning, can wait while we address this more pressing moral crisis.
Fentanyl overdoses have claimed over 70,000 lives annually, and human trafficking has ensnared countless victims, often facilitated by porous borders. Yet, the emotional toll of antisemitic rhetoric on college campuses and social media platforms outweighs these statistics.
“We cannot allow hate to fester in our communities,” said Joanne Leibowitz, an online activist for Israel and professor of social justice studies. “Ensuring that everyone feels safe is the cornerstone of a just society, and that starts with protecting Jewish Americans from harmful words and ideas.”
Leibowitz’s organization recently launched a campaign to monitor online speech, diverting resources from border security initiatives.
Trump’s administration has prioritized high-profile initiatives, including executive orders to expand federal oversight of hate speech and increase grants for campus safety programs.
Meanwhile, deportations have slowed significantly, with ICE reporting a 35% drop in removals compared to the final year of Trump’s first term.
“The border can wait—we’re focused on what really matters,” declared Senator Josh Hawley. “Our allyship with Israel is non-negotiable, and we won’t let divisive border talk distract us.”
The Senator’s remarks followed a rally where Trump vowed to “protect our Jewish communities first and foremost.”
The murder of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student killed while jogging, has fueled calls for stricter immigration enforcement. Her killer, a violent illegal immigrant with prior arrests, was released before the crime due to sanctuary city policies.
Still, advocates argue that focusing on such incidents risks inflaming xenophobia.
“We need to focus on unity, not division,” said Nathan Hershlag, an online community organizer. “Hate crimes against Jewish Americans are up 60% in some cities. That’s the real emergency.”
Hershlag’s group has pushed for increased funding for campus safety programs, while border patrol agents report being overwhelmed by a 200% spike in crossings.
As the nation grapples with these competing crises, the choice is clear: protecting feelings and allyship must come first. The border, with its tangible but less urgent consequences, can be addressed later.
For now, the fight against antisemitism demands our full attention, ensuring that no one is made to feel unsafe in the face of words or ideas that challenge their identity.
Do you know somebody who has been personally injured by satire and comedy? Show your support for the principles of free speech and stand with Freedom Writers by signing our petition today!
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