How can pop culture help us all speak more clearly about race and antisemitism? Come learn about this timely topic with Jonathan Branfman, Ph.D., who will draw from his new book, “Millennial Jewish Stars: Navigating Racial Antisemitism, Masculinity, and White Supremacy” (New York University Press, 2024).
Both Jews and non-Jews often strugÂgle to explain how antiÂsemitism works in 21st-cenÂtuÂry AmerÂiÂca. In fact, many well-intenÂtioned peoÂple lack the tools to notice antiÂsemitism at all. Likewise, many people struggle to explain how antisemitism can differently impact Jews with white skin (like the actor Seth Rogen) and Jews of color (like the rap superstar Drake). But by illuÂmiÂnatÂing how JewÂish pop culÂture stars navÂiÂgate these issues onscreen screen, we can often clarify how antisemitism shapes everyday perÂcepÂtions, biasÂes, and behavÂiors in real life.
Although these issues can seem slipÂpery to anaÂlyze, they’re realÂly as familÂiar to many readÂers as their favorite star or sitcom. No matter whether you personally follow the stars mentioned in Jonathan’s book (such as Drake), the talk will offer illuminating insights about race, antisemitism and Jewishness in America today.