JOINT STATEMENT: Antisemitic Rhetoric in Berkeley We are deeply alarmed by the growing normalization of antisemitic and hateful rhetoric in Berkeley in the discourse surrounding the upcoming election. Tolerating language that amplifies conspiracy theories and incites hostility toward historically marginalized communities threatens the safety and well-being of all residents, not just our Jewish community. At a time of heightened polarization, elevating extremist rhetoric that deliberately sows division undermines the mutual respect and civil discourse essential to a healthy, inclusive society. Recent reporting on a “Zionist takeover” of the City Council and accusations that Bay Area Jewish institutions, representing tens of thousands of local families, are "foreign lobby groups,” are highly offensive and dangerous. Most alarmingly, a social media post by a local activist group using the term “zionazi” to describe a former council member received likes from several candidates for office. By equating Zionism with Nazism, the authors are weaponizing the Holocaust against Jews and demonizing Jewish identity and connections to Israel. Such language does nothing to advance legitimate political discourse or constructive criticism of Israeli government policies. Instead, it perpetuates antisemitic stereotypes, dehumanizes Jewish people, and contributes to an environment in which harassment has become more acceptable. History has repeatedly demonstrated the devastating consequences of allowing hateful and threatening rhetoric to go unchallenged. Words matter, particularly when amplified by individuals in positions of influence. We call on Berkeley’s civic, community, elected leaders and candidates for public office to speak out against this rhetoric and unequivocally reject antisemitism and all forms of hate. -JCRC Bay Area, Congregation Beth Israel, Congregation Netivot Shalom, JCC East Bay, @jfcseastbay, @jewishbayarea-