Celebrating Purim: A Call to Combat Antisemitism

The Jewish holiday of Purim, which begins on the evening of March 2, 2024, serves as both a celebration of joy and a poignant reminder to combat antisemitism. This year’s festivities, marked by traditions and community gatherings, take on an added significance in light of contemporary issues surrounding hatred and discrimination.

Purim is celebrated during the month of Adar in the Hebrew calendar, a month often associated with joy and strength. The origins of the holiday trace back to the Persian Empire in the 4th century BCE, specifically to the reign of King Ahasuerus. Historical accounts recount that Ahasuerus executed Queen Vashti for her defiance, subsequently holding a beauty contest to select a new queen. Esther, a Jewish woman, emerged victorious but concealed her heritage.

The story escalates with the rise of Haman, a figure who harbored deep animosity toward the Jewish people. He convinced King Ahasuerus to issue a decree for the extermination of all Jews on the 13th of Adar. Queen Esther, despite the danger, bravely approached the king to plead for her people. Her courage ultimately led to Haman’s downfall, and Purim became a celebration of survival and resistance against hatred.

During the festivities, the Book of Esther, or megillah, is read aloud. Each time Haman’s name is mentioned, attendees respond with boos and hisses, symbolizing the collective commitment to eradicate hatred. This annual tradition reinforces the importance of standing against antisemitism, a message that resonates deeply in today’s society.

For many, including Sue Winthrop, who grew up in Longmont, Colorado, Purim has always been a cherished holiday, filled with vibrant community events, costumes, and traditional foods like Hamantaschen, the three-cornered cookies that symbolize Haman’s hat. However, Winthrop emphasizes that while Purim is a time for joy, it is also a moment to reflect on the broader implications of hatred and discrimination in the modern world.

Winthrop expresses concern about the current political climate in the United States, particularly referencing the actions of individuals like Stephen Miller, a senior advisor known for his controversial immigration policies. She notes that Miller, who comes from a Jewish background, has played a significant role in implementing harsh deportation tactics that stand in stark contrast to the values she associates with her heritage.

“Who in this administration will be courageous as Esther was and try to stop the vicious tactics and deportations in this country?” Winthrop asks. Her words highlight a growing sentiment among many that combating intolerance requires collective action.

As Purim approaches, the message of the holiday extends beyond personal celebration. Winthrop calls for a united effort to challenge discrimination and promote understanding through peaceful protests, dialogue, and voting. “It is going to take all of us peacefully fighting back to stop this,” she asserts, reflecting a commitment to social justice that transcends cultural and religious boundaries.

The upcoming Purim celebrations remind participants not only of their rich history but also of the ongoing struggle against hatred in all its forms. As communities come together to observe this joyous occasion, they carry with them the responsibility to advocate for a world free from antisemitism and all other expressions of bigotry.