Alarming Rise of Antisemitism and Work: The Role of HR

There has been an alarming increase in antisemitism; indeed, it has become mainstreamed in some circles.  Like other forms of bigotry, individuals who harbor this hate don't check it at the workplace door, and there is growing evidence that the hate is infecting the workplace, too.  This program discusses specific steps HR can take to prevent and address the virus at least in their workplaces. Conscious as well as unconscious bias will be addressed, along with harassing conduct and insensitive comments.  Finally, it will focus on DEI missteps regarding the handling of antisemitism and suggestions for avoiding them.  The speaker will share part of his family's story relative to the topic

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the definition of antisemitism and how it differs from other "isms" (conspiracy theory).
• Identify conscious and implicit antisemitic bias as well as harassing and insensitive comments about Jewish people.
• Understand the legal and cultural risks of tolerating bias against or harassment of Jewish applicants or employees (protections go beyond "based on religion").
• Increase awareness of, in order to be able to avoid, some of the unfortunate mistakes made in DEI programs relative to antisemitism based on misguided application of concepts of privilege and intersectionality.
• Increase inclusion and the sense of belonging of Jewish employees at a time when anxiety for many is higher.