Call for Broader Interreligious Solidarity Amid Rising Global Bigotry

A recent social media post by Ben B@dejo, identified as X user @BenTelAviv, has sparked discussion on the need for expanded advocacy against religious discrimination, highlighting both antisemitism and anti-Christian bigotry. The post emphasizes that while antisemitism is a serious concern, anti-Christian discrimination also warrants significant attention. It calls for individuals to speak out against bigotry affecting religious or ethnoreligious groups beyond their own.

"Antisemitism is a serious issue. Anti-Christian discrimination and bigotry is too," B@dejo stated in the tweet. He suggested that some advocates might hesitate to address issues outside their immediate experience not due to indifference, but from a perceived lack of qualification or information. The post encourages overcoming this initial awkwardness, asserting that increased engagement will lead to greater understanding and a stronger collective front against all forms of religious intolerance.

Global trends indicate a persistent and, in some regions, rising level of religious discrimination. Reports from organizations like the Pew Research Center show that both government restrictions on religion and social hostilities involving religion have been on an upward trajectory globally. These restrictions manifest in various forms, including legal limitations on religious practices, harassment by state actors, and violence or discrimination by private individuals and groups.

The call for solidarity comes as incidents of religious bigotry continue to be reported worldwide, affecting diverse communities. While antisemitism remains a significant concern, other forms of religious discrimination, including against Christians, Muslims, and other minority faiths, are also prevalent. B@dejo's message advocates for a unified approach, quoting the ancient Hillel maxim: "If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?" This underscores the urgency and interconnectedness of combating all forms of religious prejudice.