Central Issue: “Israelism” tackles the significant issue of young American Jews grappling with their Jewish identity amid growing criticism of Israel’s policies towards Palestine. This disconnect stems from their progressive values clashing with the traditional, unwavering support for Israel often expected within the Jewish community.

Film’s Goal (Erin Axman): The documentary seeks to:

• Reflect the diverse views within the American Jewish community, showing that dissenting opinions are not isolated.
• Highlight how progressive stances on Israel align with Jewish values of social justice.
• Demonstrate solidarity with Palestinians, advocating for their freedom.
• Explain the historical reasons behind American Jews’ pro-Israel stance and the current generational shift.

Simone Zimmerman’s Experience: Zimmerman’s personal journey illustrates the broader generational shift. Encountering the Palestinian reality shattered her worldview, prompting her to reassess her understanding of Israel and Jewish identity. This narrative serves as a microcosm of the changing perspectives among young American Jews.

Reclaiming Jewish Identity: The documentary hints at the possibility of reclaiming Jewish identity separate from unconditional support for Israel. While this section doesn’t delve into specifics, it suggests a pathway where Jewish identity can be anchored in values of social justice and solidarity, distinct from political allegiance to Israel.

Challenging Pro-Israel Narratives: “Israelism” challenges the conflation of Judaism with unwavering support for Israel propagated by major pro-Israel organizations. The film argues that Israeli policies often contradict Jewish values of social justice, aiming to dismantle idealized images of Israel as the only democracy in the Middle East or a beacon of LGBTQ+ rights.

Questioning Foundation Myths: The documentary seeks to expose the harsh realities of the Israeli occupation and the treatment of Palestinians, thereby shattering myths about Israel’s benevolence. Social media plays a crucial role in revealing the “myth of the most moral army” through real-time footage of events.

Unquestioning Military Support: The film critiques the glorification of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the narrative of “security through strength,” arguing that violence perpetuates more violence. It highlights organizations like Breaking the Silence, which consists of IDF veterans critical of its practices, as positive examples of introspection.

Balancing Narratives, Impact, and Controversy

Balancing Narratives: Filmmakers aimed to depict the transformation of American Jewish perspectives through contact with Palestinian narratives. They acknowledge the challenge of balancing focus on American Jews while adequately portraying Palestinian suffering under Israeli occupation.

Impact and Relevance: The documentary’s release coincided with the October 7th events in Gaza, making it timely and relevant. It resonates with the “Not in My Name” movement, where Jews criticize Israeli policies, advocating for a nuanced discussion on the issue.

Controversy and Censorship Attempts: “Israelism” faced significant controversy, with pro-Israel groups labeling it anti-Semitic and attempting to cancel screenings. Filmmakers highlight the irony of censoring progressive Jewish voices under the pretense of protecting Jews. Despite these attempts, universities and activists successfully resisted, allowing for open discussions.

Activism, Education, and Fractured Narratives

Importance of Activism: Simone emphasizes that activism, despite being uncomfortable, leads to personal growth and social change. She advocates for educational institutions as spaces for open learning and critical discussions, warning against the dangerous precedent of silencing dissent.

Fractured Jewish Opinions: The documentary showcases deep divisions among Jews, particularly along generational and geographical lines. Erin criticizes the myth of a monolithic pro-Israel American Jewish community, noting significant portions of young American Jews view Israel’s policies as apartheid. The film aims to present a more honest portrayal of diverse perspectives within Jewish communities.

Challenging Coalitions, Accountability, and Anti-Semitism

Impact on Global Jewry: Simone argues that criticizing Israel doesn’t make Jews less safe but instead strengthens Jewish communities by preventing the conflation of all Jews with the Israeli government. The filmmakers see Israeli actions as linked to rising Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, emphasizing the need for accountability.

Accountability and Military Aid: The documentary argues that holding Israel accountable creates a safer world for everyone. Simone criticizes the notion of unconditional love for Israel without accountability, questioning the logic behind extensive military aid to Israel.

Weaponizing Anti-Semitism: The filmmakers discuss being labeled anti-Semitic for their criticism of Israel, viewing it as a tactic to delegitimize their arguments and silence dissent. They stress the importance of separating legitimate criticism of Israeli policies from anti-Semitism.

Hope, Healing, and a Growing Movement

Facing Criticism and Finding Community: The filmmakers acknowledge the pain of ostracism for their views but find solace in intellectual honesty. They highlight a scene of a healing circle for Jews grappling with alienation within their communities.

Are These Fringe Opinions? Simone argues that critical views of Israel are pushed to the margins not because they are fringe but due to silencing tactics. Polling data and activism suggest these views are becoming more mainstream among young American Jews.

A Reason for Hope: The filmmakers express hope for a growing movement of Jews advocating for justice in Israel-Palestine and beyond. They find hope in the solidarity between Jews and Palestinians working for peace, with public opinion data suggesting a majority of American Jews support a ceasefire in Gaza. Erin emphasizes that the pro-Israel lobby doesn’t represent the majority of American Jews, who are increasingly progressive.

Conclusion

“Israelism” presents a compelling narrative that challenges traditional pro-Israel stances within the American Jewish community. By highlighting the growing dissent among young Jews and their quest for a more nuanced Jewish identity, the documentary sparks critical conversations about Israel’s policies and the future of Jewish solidarity. Despite controversy and censorship attempts, the film underscores the importance of open discourse and the potential for a more just and inclusive future.