When you are engaging in advocacy, it can help to have some language to use as a starting point. Below are some suggestions to use as your guidelines, which you can adapt to say in your own voice.

Regarding the Conflict

“Hamas has broken ceasefires multiple times in recent months—including the ceasefire that was in effect on October 7. They killed mothers, children, and the elderly, and are still holding hostages. A ceasefire is not one-sided and must start with Hamas releasing the hostages, laying down their arms, turning in those responsible for October 7, and allowing Israelis to be safe in their homes.”

“If we are to have the lasting peace we all want, Hamas must be disarmed and disbanded so they cannot attack Israel again, and again murder so many mothers, children, and grandparents.”

“We share in the grief for the loss of lives in the region. Our goal is a lasting peace and one that allows all people to live safely.” “We ask all people of good will to join us in our call for Hamas to release all hostages and to lay down their arms, so that the work of creating a lasting peace can begin.”

In guiding the conversation, a good way to start is to let people know that our traditions allow and encourage a diversity of opinions.

Other phrases that might come in handy: “I’m a Jew, not a rabbi,” in answer to questions about religion. Consider using, “In my opinion…” or “I believe/understand/think…” as a start to your statements. Try to gently elicit your guests’ opinions and questions, assuring them they will be heard and respected.

In response to queries about things that may be controversial, the truism “two Jews, three opinions” is a useful one to share. Explain that Jews are not all the same and do not hold the same opinions—and that is ok. For example, Jews ourselves have debates about whether we are best defined as a race, religion, culture or tribe.

If the conversation turns to the current conflict, consider framing your answer in terms of what you know and what you believe. Example: “I know it is difficult to see the loss of life on both sides in this war…but I believe the only way to keep Israelis and Palestinians safe is for Hamas to leave Gaza.”

Ask your non-Jewish friends what they think, believe, and feel to give them the opportunity to share their experience and opinions. This also provides you with information about what they know and how you can expand their knowledge of Jews, Israel, and the antisemitism happening today in Chicago and throughout the U.S.

You don’t have to pretend to know everything or to agree with anything/everything your non-Jewish friends say. Keep the conversation civil and make sure everyone feels comfortable voicing their opinions respectfully. Example: “I am not sure that what you are saying is factually true, but I also know none of us are always right or always wrong. Do you mind if I send you some resources on the topic?”

Increasing Antisemitism

“Sadly, we’re witnessing record levels of antisemitism across the U.S. and around the globe—threats and violence against Jewish people, institutions, and Jewish-owned businesses. Hamas supporters, their rallies, and their targeting of Jews doesn’t do anything to advance peace.”

“We know that Americans reject hatred and extremism and we invite all people to join us in taking action against antisemitism, so that Jews can feel safe in our community, in Jewish spaces and public spaces.”

“We will work with everyone who believes in peace to make it clear that in this community we will not stand for antisemitism and racism.”