Many find it difficult to grasp that prejudiced views against Jews continue to exist in the present-day world.
However, many Hispanic and Latinx community members fear the increase of antisemitic propaganda that has appeared in Mexico’s news outlets.
Pedro Gonzalez Corona, a Research Fellow at the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy, illuminates this issue. He has been deeply involved in researching the resurgence of antisemitic propaganda in Mexico. Dr. Gonzalez Corona is the 2023-2024 Martin-Springer Institute Postdoctoral Scholar, selected to provide an international perspective at NAU. He served as Assistant Director at the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies where he taught courses on the Holocaust, human rights, Latin America, and Mexican history. Dr. Gonzalez Corona was also previously a fellow at the Institute for the Study of Human Rights at Columbia University.
Present-day political positions regarding the Jewish community in Mexico influence global affairs and have repercussions on domestic matters as well. At Dr. Gonzalez Corona’s talk, you will learn more about the religious and ethnic communities within Mexico, including the seldom-considered Jewish population.
Researching and discussing antisemitism is crucial to bringing global awareness to the issue and informing those who would like to work for a more just world. Understanding how antisemitic policies can influence both the past and present can help prevent a repeat of past terrors.
An increase in antisemitic views has come to be widespread in many media sources, including those in Mexico. Hate speech, stereotypes and false conspiracy theories continue to isolate and harm Jewish communities. Media outlets, whether intentionally or inadvertently, have played a role in perpetuating these negative narratives. Stories that portray Jewish communities in a negative light only serve to further incite of prejudice and discrimination. Such narratives can reinforce existing biases and contribute to an environment where antisemitism thrives. Recent findings from the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) Global 100 Index Survey in Mexico have exposed disheartening attitudes within certain segments of the community. The fact that some community members believe Jewish people should not actively participate in the economy or politics is a deeply concerning manifestation of antisemitic beliefs. These attitudes can have a chilling effect on the social, economic, and political participation of Jewish individuals, leading to their marginalization and exclusion.
It is crucial for society as a whole, including government officials, media outlets, and community leaders, to recognize the harmful impact of antisemitic rhetoric and conspiracy theories. By actively working to counter these narratives and fostering an inclusive environment, we can hope to combat the rise of antisemitism and protect the rights and well-being of Jewish communities in Mexico and beyond.
-Ana Papen-Gould, Senior, International Affairs
CAL Event Team Fall ’23