Antisemitism's Unchecked Rise: A Threat to Our Society

Despite ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism, the scourge continues to rear its ugly head across the United States. A recent investigation sheds light on a troubling connection between a top Biden White House adviser and a church with a history of hosting individuals espousing antisemitic rhetoric.

In the heart of Washington, D.C., a historic Black church called Shiloh Baptist Church has become embroiled in controversy over its connections to individuals with a long history of antisemitism. Reverend Thomas Bowen, who serves as the church's minister of social justice and has been employed there since 2002, has recently been appointed as the senior adviser for the White House Office of Public Engagement.

Bowen has repeatedly praised Reverend Doctor Wallace Charles Smith, Shiloh's senior minister, who has hosted a series of events featuring speakers with antisemitic views. In 2018, Shiloh Baptist Church hosted the National Black Men's Convention, which featured Malik Shabazz and Hashim Nzinga as co-hosts. Shabazz has been labeled a "racist black nationalist" by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) for his history of anti-Semitic remarks, while Nzinga espoused views that "every White man and every Jew is the devil by nature."

Antisemitism's Unchecked Rise: A Threat to Our Society

Leonard Jeffries, the controversial uncle of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, also spoke at the convention, reiterating his previous statements about Jews financing the slave trade and controlling the media. Another speaker, Dr. Boyce Watkins, has defended Louis Farrakhan's antisemitic rhetoric and praised the Nation of Islam.

In 2015, Shiloh Baptist Church hosted Farrakhan and several Black community leaders for a meeting to discuss the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March. Farrakhan has a long history of antisemitic statements, including calling Jews "termites."

Antisemitism's Unchecked Rise: A Threat to Our Society

These instances highlight a disturbing pattern of hate speech being propagated within the confines of a religious institution. The tolerance and promotion of antisemitism by Shiloh Baptist Church's leadership is a betrayal of the values of faith and unity that should guide any house of worship.

Bowen, who has been praised by his fellow church members, has not responded to requests for comment on his association with these individuals. The White House has also declined to comment on the matter.

Antisemitism's Unchecked Rise: A Threat to Our Society

The unchecked rise of antisemitism in the United States is a threat to the fabric of our society. The insidious spread of hate speech, whether from individuals or institutions, must be condemned and confronted at every turn.

Silence and inaction in the face of antisemitism embolden those who seek to divide and sow discord. It is imperative that we hold accountable those who promote hate, regardless of their position or affiliation.

Antisemitism's Unchecked Rise: A Threat to Our Society

The appointment of Bowen to a high-level White House position raises concerns about the potential for antisemitic views to influence policy decisions. The administration has a responsibility to ensure that all its appointees are free from any taint of bigotry or hate.

Addressing antisemitism requires a multi-pronged approach. Educational initiatives, interfaith dialogue, and strong enforcement of hate crime laws are essential. It also demands vigilance from all corners of society, including faith communities, government, and civil rights organizations.

Antisemitism's Unchecked Rise: A Threat to Our Society

The fight against antisemitism is an ongoing battle, one that must be waged with unwavering determination. By standing together and condemning hate speech, we can create a more just and inclusive society for all.