By Jodi Taub

Following the Jewish Social Work Consortium’s (JSWC) recent press release calling attention to antisemitism and antizionism within social work, we continue to document discrimination and demand accountability from professional organizations, employers, licensing and accrediting bodies, and educational institutions. At the same time, we want Jewish colleagues to know how they can protect themselves and find support.

Over the past few years, Jewish social workers and mental health professionals have increasingly reached out to me and other members of the Jewish Social Work Consortium. Many have experienced antisemitism, antizionism, and discrimination in workplaces, professional organizations, and online forums. They often fear that speaking out could jeopardize their reputations, professional relationships, practices, or livelihoods.

Balancing the desire to advocate for ourselves and others with the need to protect our professional standing can be difficult. No one should have to risk their career to seek support or challenge discrimination. Below are a few recommendations I’ve shared with colleagues and used in my own advocacy work:

1. Document everything.

Save emails, take screenshots, and maintain records of discriminatory statements, interactions, or incidents. Include dates, relevant context, and any subsequent communications. Documentation may become important if you decide to pursue a formal complaint, seek legal consultation, or address a pattern of discriminatory behavior.

2. Give yourself time to process.

Experiencing antisemitism or antizionism from colleagues or within organizations can leave you feeling vulnerable, isolated, and uncertain about how to respond. Give yourself time to process what happened, seek support, and consider your options before deciding on how you want to respond.

3. Explore your options and seek consultation.

You don’t have to navigate these experiences alone. The Jewish Social Work Consortium is available for consultation, support, and advocacy. Many of us have encountered similar situations and have developed relationships with professional organizations, advocates, and legal resources that may be helpful.

Seeking guidance does not obligate you to pursue a formal complaint or take public action. It can simply help you understand your options and decide how you wish to proceed.

4. Advocacy does not always require public identification.

There are ways to raise concerns, seek guidance, and contribute to broader advocacy efforts without publicly identifying yourself.

Organizations such as the Louis D. Brandeis Center, the National Jewish Advocacy Center, the Lawfare Project, and the Anti-Defamation League may offer guidance, referrals, and opportunities to report discrimination. Reporting incidents can also help document broader patterns of antisemitism and antizionism.

You may be able to seek guidance confidentially before deciding whether to take formal action. However, it’s important to ask about confidentiality and anonymity, as neither can always be guaranteed.

5. Remember that you have a professional community behind you.

Experiencing Jew hatred within our own profession can be particularly painful, especially when it leads to the loss of professional relationships, opportunities, and a sense of belonging.

Discrimination against Jewish professionals, including exclusion based on their connection to Israel, is not just harmful; it violates fundamental principles of professional ethics. Employers, licensing boards, accrediting bodies, and professional organizations have a responsibility to address discrimination and hold those responsible accountable. Yet despite these obligations, we have seen little evidence that these institutions are holding professionals accountable for antisemitism and antizionism.

Our shared sense of Jewish peoplehood and commitment to supporting one another can be a tremendous source of strength. Together, we can build new connections and communities, advocate for accountability, and ensure that Jewish colleagues do not feel alone when confronting discrimination.

You do not have to face these experiences alone. We have your back.

The Jewish Social Work Consortium provides peer and professional support to those navigating antisemitism and antizionism. We can also help connect individuals with appropriate legal resources. Our consultations do not constitute therapy or legal advice.