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Things Teens Should Know About Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ"
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Dealing with Anti-Semitic Comments
Posted: March 02, 2004
Some Things to Remember If You Are Confronted With Insensitive or
Anti-Semitic Comments (like, "Jews are Christ Killers")
- There are no absolute rules for how to respond.
The way you will react will depend on the particular circumstances-who you're dealing with, where the statement is made, who else is around.
- It is O.K. to be angry or upset.
- Remember that you have done nothing to provoke this situation; it is not your fault.
- Ask for support. Talk to your parents, teachers, rabbi or youth group leader.
- Words never justify violent behavior. Do not resort to violence.
What to Say to Yourself:
- Think before you respond or react.
- It's often more effective to be calm, polite and hold your head high.
- Is this something you should respond to or walk away from?
- Do you know enough to respond or do you need more facts?
- It may be better to take someone aside to talk outside of a group.
- If you aren't sure whether to do something, discuss it with other people.
- If you can't manage to respond right away, can you do something later?
What to Say to Others:
- Let the other person speak, and then respond.
- Talk clearly and deliberately, but don't raise your voice.
- Try to express how a comment made you feel.
- Focus on the offensive words or behavior, but don't attack the person.
- Tell someone you trust about the incident (friend, parent, teacher, rabbi).
ADL CAN HELP:
You can get help by contacting your nearest ADL regional office.
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