[R-G] "Zionism doesn't define Jews - it divides us," By GABOR MATé

[Sid Shniad]

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/PEstory/TGAM/20021212/COMATE/Comment/comment/comment_temp/1/2/2/ 

Globe and Mail December 12, 2002 – Page A23 

Zionism doesn't define Jews - it divides us 

By GABOR MATé 

Given its horrific 20th-century connotations, anti-Semitism is a serious charge. It was levelled against critics of Israel on this page recently by three people who have demonstrated a strong lifelong commitment to humanitarian values. Lawyer Clayton Ruby, labour leader Jeff Rose and physician Philip Berger wrote that they feel "anti-Semitism has emerged as a powerful force" among some left-wing opponents of Israeli policy. 

As a Jew and a former member of a Zionist youth movement, I understand the affinity the three writers have for Israel. I can also see why the blindly murderous attitudes and actions of some in the Palestinian resistance trigger a powerfully defensive emotional response in the Jewish community. 

But the flaw in their argument is rooted in a confounding of Jewish identity with the Jewish state. They write of an "artificial distinction between Israel and Zionism, on one hand, and Jewish identity on the other." 

The modern identification of Jews and Israel emerged largely as a reaction to the Nazi genocide. Although it may represent the majority view today, it should be not taken for granted. Historically, it never has been. It is unlikely to persist.