No room for hate

On Friday, December 6, Dr. Lauren Bairnsfarther, CEO of the Anne Frank Center USA and a prominent figure in Holocaust education, addressed the students of Mercersburg Academy in a lecture on the problem of antisemitism. As part of the Academy’s Friday school meeting series, Bairnsfarther discussed the rise of worldwide hate, focusing on antisemitism, its historical roots, and its persistent presence today.

 Bairnsfarther called the attention of the audience to the rising tide of anti-semitism across the globe and notably in the United States. As an expert in Middle Eastern Studies and with years of experience working in institutions like the National Holocaust Museum and the Pittsburgh Holocaust Center, she brought a deep understanding of the topic to her discussion. “When we talk about antisemitism only as a historical event tied to the Holocaust, we miss the fact that it is a living issue,” she explained. “Antisemitism is still very much a present issue, and it’s something we need to actively address.”

The lecture was a call to action. Bairnsfarther argued that combating antisemitism requires engagement and education. Bairnsfarther also touched on the complexities of the Jewish identity, including the nuance between being Jewish and being pro-Israel, just one distinction she believes is crucial to understanding the full scope of the issue. “There’s a challenge in understanding how these elements intersect,” she noted, encouraging students to understand that Jewish identity and perspective are not monolithic. 

Before the lecture, School Minister Will Whitmore, event organizer, previewed Bairnsfarther’s talk. “Our theme this year is ‘Listen, Understand, Empower,’” Whitmore said. “We talk a lot about racism, sexism, and issues around gender identity, but we often don’t address religious bigotry in the same way. Antisemitism is something that affects many people, and we must listen to experts like Bairnsfarther to gain a deeper understanding.” Whitmore also noted the reluctance of many to wade into a topic of such complexity and emotion. “I think this talk is going to challenge the students to think differently about how they view antisemitism,” he added. “Sometimes, you hear something that makes you positively reconsider your beliefs, and that’s what I’m hoping will happen here.”

Interested students joined Bairnsfarther at a brown bag lunch, allowing for continued discussion on the issues raised during the lecture and the opportunity to ask questions.

Overall, Bairnsfarther’s visit served as a reminder to the Mercersburg community that understanding history is crucial to acknowledging the struggles of the past and to shaping a more empathetic and inclusive future. As Bairnsfarther said, “You have a lot of power. Act at your level. Don’t discount your ability to make a difference.” She left students with the challenge to think critically about their role in combating hate and fostering understanding, empowering them to impact their communities positively.