AMERICAblog: Feeling the hate in Jerusalem on the eve of Obama's address
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
Nice drunken right wing fascists. Their ancestors who gave them Israel are spinning in their graves! They are just as bad as any Nazi in the way they were spewing their hatred!
That crap about "grandma being in Auschwitz" and then turning around and spewing hate just like a Nazi. Betcha Grandma is REAL proud you little fool! This is what happens when kids aren't taught history.
Scottsdalian
· 5 months ago
Remind me again.
Why do we absolutely, unconditionally back Israel 1,000%?????
To protect these innocent children of David???
So they can send their (our) tanks to fight the rock-throwing Palestinians???
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
Well, I know there are some good Jewish people over there. They aren't all over privileged American jerks, and those who were out getting drunk and saying that neo-fascist Zionist crap need to have their ears boxed. This kind of behavior from a bunch of drunken American Jews does nothing to help the argument Israel needs our protection as an ally.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
Does Israel need our protection? It seems to me the only thing our protection of Israel brings is war on Islam. They have nuclear weapons, why do they need protection? I'm being sincere, because I don't get it.
brb915
· 5 months ago
I tell ya cbn, its from your post to G-d's ears. I think I told you Americablog folks about a incident I had at the border checkpoint between Bethlehem and Jerusalem some years back when I was on one of my relief/mission trips. It was as hateful and ugly an incident as any I have seen, and I gotta say I've been in many a longitude........it was atypical of the distain the Israeli soldiers had for the Palistinians, so I was told over and over from many fronts. I'll never forget it, and this episode solidifys that mindset
tbhull
· 5 months ago
How are you so sure his grandmother did not spew the same hatred? Just because a much more powerful force, thoroughly racist, enslaved does not necessarily ensure that the enslaved were free of this type of hate.
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
I'm not sure she didn't spew the same hatred, but I think I'll give grandma the benefit of the doubt. I do not believe the Jews deserved to be put in concentration camps simply for being Jews, and that is exactly what happened to them in World War II Nazi Germany. They weren't punished for what they did, they were punished because they were simply member of a class of people.
There are good people and bad people in EVERY culture, class, country and religion. People need to have their human rights respected no matter who they are.
tbhull
· 5 months ago
Nobody gets the benefit of the doubt good, bad or ugly, even grandma. Also nobody deserves what happened at the hands of Hitler in WWII, even if they spewed hate filled garbage or not.
Jimmy
· 5 months ago
Ah, yes, a bunch of drunk, overly privileged American kids. Wow, makes me so proud to be an American.
I doubt seriously these obviously uneducated fools should be held up as the standard-bearer for all American Jews.
The most disturbing part of this is hearing them utter such racist garbage. It wasn't that long ago when these young people would have been called that and worse. How sad for them.
mtiffany
· 5 months ago
"I doubt seriously these obviously uneducated fools should be held up as the standard-bearer for all American Jews."
You're right. They'll just run AIPAC when they grow up.
Outraged
· 5 months ago
I'm a Jew that supports Obama's Israel policy 110% and I've read all 100 + posts so far, and no one has identified these ignorant kids for who they really are.
To be partying in Israel and doing aliyah (pilgrimage), you can bet that most, if not all, are the sons and daughters of doctors, lawyers, bankers, etc -- basically Jews cut from the same cloth as Eric Cantor. They may be attributing their anti-Obama bile to his perceived tough stance on Israel, but I'll bet they're just regurgitating their mommy and daddy's fears of him coming to raise their taxes.
They're not Jewish assholes, they're Fox News Republican assholes who happen to be Jewish (a very microscopic per cent of the overall Jewish population).
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
Probably very true. Except that I do NOT believe that they represent only a "microscopic portion" of the Jewish population. Even though the Jewish population in the United States is only 3% and are by far over represented IMO, I would suspect that these young adults and their opinions represent close to half of that 3%, if not more.
Its a mistake to underestimate racism. Its a mistake to underestimate threats against the President. Its a mistake to underestimate bigotry and I REFUSE to underestimate evil hearts of these arrogant young people on behalf of the Jewish American Population. Rather I look to the Jewish American population TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS ASAP!
Isadore
· 5 months ago
The next time I read about Israel allowing medical help into a country they just bombed to give medical aid to wounded children I'll give your argument more weight.
Facts are ugly things.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
You know I am pissed about those gifts they sent to schools and hospitals in Gaza, especially those candles who's flames wouldn't go out. Why can't you apreciate these other people's arguments as well?
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
I think you have a very valid and good point. I'm not Jewish, but have MANY progressive Jewish friends who would BITCH SLAP these spoiled drunken kids if they could get their hands on 'em.
erip
· 5 months ago
Recipe for disaster: Mix many parts alcohol, combine with over priveleged ignorant white jewish children who never had to struggle a day in their lives.. add 20 yrs of brainwashing, combine with overt bigotry. Shake well and serve..... This is why there will never be world peace. These american assholes have grown up working for nothing, striving for nothing and aspiring only to get drunk and as one put it "get pussy" .. and we wonder why the rest of the world hates us?
ShirleyGoodnessanMercy
· 5 months ago
Those young people are disgusting. Until I saw this video I was a huge supporter of Israel. Now, between Netanyahu and these cretins, I see no reason for America to give a DIME to Israel anymore. If they can spit on Obama (whose top man is RAHM EMMANUEL) and call him a "terrorist," then they are on their own. And those Israeli settlers on the West Bank can just live under Palestinian rule.
nicho
· 5 months ago
Well, these kids aren't Israel (not that I'm a fan of our Israel policy). They would be just as disgusting if they had been dumped in Boston, DC, or Chicago. But you know why the parents wanted to get them out of town.
ShirleyGoodnessanMercy
· 5 months ago
John Aravosis said most are dual American and Israeli citizens, so they ARE a part of Israel. And Netanyahu is little but an Israeli Rush Limbaugh. Their comments are all straight from the mouth of Limbaugh.
shell
· 5 months ago
Netanyahu -- an Israeli Rush.
Perfect. I agree.
Scottsdalian
· 5 months ago
It's my understanding that if you are Jewish, you are automatically a citizen of Isreal...no matter which country in the world you actually live in.
(I'm pretty sure that's how a Jewisy buddy of mine described it...but I won't defend it too strenuously if someone tells me I'm f.o.s.)
Asterix
· 5 months ago
Not quite true--you have to be the right kind of Jew:
Isn't it like we all are Mormons after we die? ;-)
Lynn Dee
· 5 months ago
Well that was depressing. I never thought I'd hear American Jews sound like white trash Republicans.
But here's a question: Does this represent some significant strain of thought in Israel? Or is it as meaningful as filming during spring break in Ft. Lauderdale and trying to extrapolate from that, politically?
offspring
· 5 months ago
this generation of jews has grown up very spoiled and very aggressive they are tought that arabs are dogs, that you can kill rape murder the and kidnap and torture and it is ok,there are hardly any movies or specials that show the israels in a negative light why? because they dont let you film it they treat arabs and consider them insects that should be destroyed. they live in a country where every damn thing is handed to them, other countries support israel they produce NOTHING that is a commondity, well except for the assasin mossad. we give them money we give them weapons and let them invade and kill anyone they want we have been brought up in the us to view the jews as victims for always, they are not victims. when they are the ones with the guns killing. their kids are spoiled childeren
Jophus
· 5 months ago
You seem to separate us from them pretty well yourself.
Rabbi Jeff Falick
· 5 months ago
As a rabbi, I am horrified and disgusted by this behavior. But if you want to know how many American Jews support Obama, then look at how we voted.
Many Jews are scared now because Obama is taking the mideast seriously. Change is scary and painful especially when you have been raised in an atmosphere of fear (they were probably very young on 9/11 and were indoctrinated to be scared all the time).
But they are not representative of American or Israeli Jews. And Birthright Israel is not a brainwashing trip. Most of us who lead these trips are from liberal academic backgrounds.
These are stupid little children behaving like idiots. Some of these drunken children couldn't even identify the prime minister by name.
Take it down or leave it up, but don't assume it represents anything different than any other drunken college party.
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
Oh Please. Spare me the apologetic excuses.
These are not "children" they are bigots and racist adults and they have threatened the President of the United States with, “being Shot"!
They belong in prison, Period, and, you can bet your butt this has been reported.
elizabethcostello
· 5 months ago
A "drunken college party" descends into gross, unabashed racism and white supremacy? Do these stupid young idiots realize that the very people who spouted "white power" slaughtered THEIR ANCESTORS? Why on earth try to defend these scumbags in the least? They are an absolute disgrace. DON'T TRY TO COVER FOR OR DEFEND THESE HORRIBLE MONSTERS' RACISM, NARCISSISM, and WHITE SUPREMATIST HATEMONGERING! It is absolutely disgusting!
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
Unfortunately, if you go to a drunken college party in most Red States, you will hear the same crap from FOX NEWS loving Frat boys and Sorority girls.
elizabethcostello
· 5 months ago
I was born and grew up in a red state, and spent time with conservative friends at keggers (yes, some of us progressives have done that), and I never heard this kind of crap. I think your response not only unfairly tars Red State students but also is still whitewashing the fact that these young people were championing the very sort of crap that was used against their ancestors, that's being fomented against them as I type this. Is this what the aliyahs are fostering, this kind of racist nationalism directed at a president whose overall vision is about as pro-Israel as any of his predecessors? Hell, Tzipi Livni of Kadima said on 60 Minutes, no less, that the settlement building had to stop. Are they going to rant like Klansmen about her?
Ron
· 5 months ago
Like they might know who Tzipi Livni is.
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
You haven't been to Christo-Fascist universities in Red States then. Believe me, they are ZIONISTS and they are very hateful and unbalanced in their views. They believe Israel can do NO WRONG because they think they are G-d's chosen people. Anyone who decides they are "chosen" does not have a balanced view of things. There are TWO SIDES to the Israel / Palestine issue and I have lots of Jewish friends who understand this point. Granted, they are Zionists but they do realize there is a moderate way of viewing the situation that takes all points of view into consideration.
One other thing. You can still be a Christian and believe there are TWO SIDES to this issue. Just sayin'...
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
and DAMNED STRAIGHT I'm going to "tar and feather" Red State students at "keggers." I will say there are lots of varying view points even in Red States, but I've lived both in Red and Blue States and I KNOW when I'm in a more virulently conservative place. For instance, I have never been gay bashed in a Blue State, but I have in a Red State and it didn't take much to get my ass kicked. All it took was the "perception" I was gay to get beaten. So, please don't try to tell me I don't know what I'm talking about when it comes to prevalence of attitudes in Red States. Oh, one other thing, I had plenty of people call our President "N*gger" when I was knocking doors for his campaign here in Oklahoma and they were Democrats! So, lets not "go there," 'kay?
Jophus
· 5 months ago
I'm going to school in a red state (Indiana), well I guess it purple now. I've also went to school in Miami. I'd just like to add my 2 cents. I think in any frat party in any state you will find views like this. However most college get togethers are greeted with with liberal and progressive conversations the major majority of the time.
Intrestingly enough, the only place I've ever been 'gay bashed' is the river walk on the chicago river. I think this is just an anomaly though.
I definitely relate to hearing the word nigger multiple times when I was busy making Indiana vote blue for the first time in decades.
elizabethcostello
· 5 months ago
"Lets not "go there," 'kay?" Are you tripping? Seriously? I've dealt with racist, sexist gay white men in New York City, Chicago, Boston, and other "blue states," so whoop-dee-do! In fact, when the racist, sexist "performer" Shirley Q. Public was performing in New York's West Village a few years, just steps away from the Stonewall Bar and Christopher St., white gay men sat in her show and laughed away while queer and straight people of color protested outside. You act like no one is aware there are racists in Oklahoma or anywhere else, including blue states. We know this. The issue that the OP was making concerned these young people in Israel spouting racist, white supremacist claptrap. You've decided to defend or excuse their actions by smearing college students across the board in red states. It's not going to work. Stick with the issue at hand, please.
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
I don't think the drag queen Shirley Q. Public who satirically makes fun of herself, a gay drag queen, as much as she makes fun of other minorities is in the same league as fascist hate. Sorry... its apples and oranges. Laughing with someone or even AT SOMEONE isn't the same as the drunken hate speech from the American Jewish kids. Their hate speech isn't all that uncommon among other ultra conservative right wing entitled Republican Red State college kids whether they are Jewish or not, and I'm not saying there isn't that "Red State" attitude in Blue States, either. But its been my experience that Red State attitude is far more prevalent in RED States.
elizabethcostello
· 5 months ago
Now you're defending Shirley Q. Liquor (my bad, I wrote "Public"), who openly performs BLACK FACE MINSTRELSY, mocks poor black people, especially poor black Southern women, and traffics in racist stereotypes?
Are you kidding? You must be. I hope so. If not, you're as bad as s/he is.
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
I'll repeat what I said and then add what was said on one of the links you just provided. Shirley Q. Liquor is a DRAG QUEEN and is making fun of herself as much as she is poking fun at other stereotypes.
"I don't think the drag queen Shirley Q. Public who satirically makes fun of herself, a gay drag queen, as much as she makes fun of other minorities is in the same league as fascist hate. "
From your link:
"And I’ll add, we’ll just laugh at the fat white gay man who is passing judgment on Black women with his racist act."
So, go ahead, and laugh at the fat white gay man instead of what you consider his racist act. Its all a big joke anyway...
On the other hand, what those kids were saying was not a joke and I don't remember the drag queen "Shirley Q. Liquor" ever threatening violence against anyone. There is a difference. Shirley Q. Liquor does more than a characterization of a stereotypical southern black lady, she also does a white trash lady, as well. Its pretty much equal opportunity drag comedy. She makes fun of EVERYTHING...
Its my opinion you are really reaching by trying to elevate what that drag queen does in her comedy act to this particular argument over drunken violent hate speech and whether it should be applied as a dominant Jewish American attitude in Israel.
elizabethcostello
· 5 months ago
You are the one defending both the racist white drag queen who runs around in black face AND these kids. YOU. That says it all.
Are you black? Are you a woman? I don't think so.
Oh and as for this: "whether it should be applied as a dominant Jewish American attitude in Israel"--that's YOUR projection, not mine. I never said anything AT ALL about "dominant Jewish American attitudes in Israel." I said don't defend or take up for these racist jerks. You've been doing that for more than a day now, and smearing Americans in red states to do so. Stop it.
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
I am a gay man, and we get made fun of ALL THE TIME.
I haven't been defending these kids, but I have been careful to say it isn't indicative of all Jewish Americans attitudes, and that you can get the same kind of hate speech out of drunken right wingers here in the United States. You seem to think because I said there are SOME that do this that I am saying EVERYONE does it. I am not.
I did NOT defend the racist jerks. You decided I was defending them. If you read some of my other remarks, you would know I suggested they should have the Secret Service visit them for threatening our President.
How about we call a truce at this point?
As far as Shirley Q. Liquor is concerned. I'll start taking drag queens making fun of black women more seriously when everyone starts taking straight black men making fun of gay men more seriously...
I'd say if you start going after Shirley Q. Liquor then you'd better be protesting the likes of all the comedians who blatantly make fun of gay stereotypes all the time. I don't need a lecture on taking satirical comedy seriously when I don't even have the right to marry my partner, or keep a job because I happen to be gay. All I am saying is Shirley Q. Liquor and this hate speech over in Israel isn't even in the same league. I'd put Shirley Q. more in the same league as the straight black guys making fun of gay men on "Living Color." If I can laugh with them making fun of gay men, like me, then I don't see why Shirley Q. Liquor should be seen as something any more harmful than all the countless comedians who do gay stereotypical satire.
ezpz
· 5 months ago
I don't think he defended anyone or anything. In fact his post starts out with:
"...I am horrified and disgusted by this behavior. "
Did you miss that?
His point was that these kids in the video do not accurately represent the Jewish population at large.
I agree with him and don't see where he 'defended' or 'covered' for anyone.
elizabethcostello
· 5 months ago
He tried to minimize the racist crap they were spewing by comparing their behavior to a drunken college party and describing them as "stupid little children behaving like idiots. Some of these drunken children couldn't even identify the prime minister by name." These are young adults, not "little children." Did you miss those lines in his comments?
They know what they're saying, drunk or not. Don't defend them. They need to take responsibility for their racist, hateful comments against our president, who openly stood up for Israel in his comments in Egypt. They need to take responsibility for their racist statements against Black people, against Palestinians, against other Jews and anyone who challenges their extremist viewpoints, and don't need someone covering for them.
Jay
· 5 months ago
I fully agree with your comment Rabbi Falick. And the facts back it up. Jews voted for Obama 77% to 22%.
My disgust here is that the behavior and comments in this video is being promoted on this site as being "typical" when it couldn't be farther from the truth. Strange how this site's slogan is "A Great Nation Deserves The Truth." Somehow its authenticity is beginning to feel similar to another famous slogan, "Fair and Balanced"...
threadmonitor
· 5 months ago
Ok, Jay. You've made your point about not liking the post. Enough with bashing the blog. More of it will be deleted.
shell
· 5 months ago
I thought Israel was so disciplined. They must be so embarrassed at this! Spoiled little American children acting this way. I say stick them in the Israeli army now. That might grow them up.
They claim they know about the holocaust. No they don't. They hear their grandparents talk about it. And then they describe Obama as a "nigger." Just as they are screaming about themselves being killed because of their "race." Are they morons?
They need to grow up. The bimbo who shrieked about Obama and then didn't even know who Netanyahu was -- priceless. Spoiled children.
Scottsdalian
· 5 months ago
"I study political science. I know my shit. Who is 'Benjamin Yahoo'?"
whomod
· 5 months ago
ROTFLMFAO!!!
yeah, that part got me too. Repeating the same FOX news crap and then asserting her intelligence. I had a friend like that back in the 90's who graduated from Cal State LB and thought that the Presidential State Of The Union Address that Clinton gave a few weeks after the Lewisnsky scandal broke, which I happened to be watching at the time, was the trial of Bill Clinton. I then informed her that it was the SOTU Address and she didn't have a clue what that was.
Gotta love American higher education. Make you proficient in 1 field and leave you dumb as doorknobs in every other facet of life.
shell
· 5 months ago
That is really sad! "Back in my day ..." hahaha I know, I know, but this is how I remember it. That is the REASON you got a 4-year degree -- the first 2 years, you were forced to take classes you didn't want to. (At least I didn't.) Science! Math! Yuck! But -- it was to give you a well-rounded education. To say nothing of the discipline it took to actually pass classes you weren't really interested in. (Before the class, at least.)
No, it didn't make you an expert on, say, math, but it made sure you at least had rudimentary knowledge of it. (Which is more than I had before.)
Today, when my children attended college, it had changed. Now they have tons of CHOICES! Good, eh? You can take geology rather than chemistry. Geology is good, but it isn't chemistry.
If you DO know a little about many subjects, hang onto your hats -- it will only get worse. America has been dumbed down for a LONG time.
libertydan
· 5 months ago
About time we stopped giving Israel billions of dollars, then maybe they will make an attempt at peace.
Scottsdalian
· 5 months ago
Years ago, when I was first trying to figure out the politics of the Middle East, I talked to a buddy of mine who is Jewish. I asked him why the Jews are so hated by the Arabs for thousands of years.
His answer: "Because we (Jews) are assholes." He simply shrugged his shoulders, laughed self-consciously...and then repeated "We are assholes. It's the truth."
I've never been able to shake that memory/explanation.
btw- he was a very 'solid' Jew, not like another buddy of ours who was merely 'technically' a Jew - in name only, never practiced his faith/heritage.
ShirleyGoodnessanMercy
· 5 months ago
Read the book "Baghdad Without A Map" by Tony Horwitz to get a wonderful view of why the Jews and the Arabs don't understand each other. It is a book about an Arab-speaking Jewish man traveling all over the Arab world, and then going to Israel at the end. The contrast in cultures is extreme.
smiling dog
· 5 months ago
This is what happens after a half century of propaganda about the Middle East. Israel has no interest in the two-state solution. They never have. They fully intend to have the West Bank and Jerusalem. They won't even agree to stop the settlements. Why shouldn't these kids be arrogant? We always give a Israel a pass.
1970cs
· 5 months ago
Other than fat, drunk, and stupid I do not see them achieving much. They are the 2nd or 3rd generation living off the family wealth. Life has a way of not being kind to the weak, look at the people conned by Madoff.
caphillprof
· 5 months ago
We are loving all the folks dismissing this report because these young Jewish American were drinking.
That wasn't the song the chorus was singing when a very drunk Mel Gibson made allegedly anti-Semitic statements.
Rab
· 5 months ago
Bingo!
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
Drinking does not excuse behavior. Never has... never will. Therefore, anyone who threatened our President's health needs to be investigated!
JohnNation
· 5 months ago
Obama stood in front of the Arab world and proclaimed our support of Israel is unbreakable, and non-negotiable.
And then we have these American geniuses showing their American smarts and babbling nonsense about how he doesn't support Israel.
The right wing in this country has dumbed people down quite well I think.
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
Not just dumbed them down....completely brainwashed them from FACTS!
Jophus
· 5 months ago
Exactly! It is easy to fly under the radar, when no one is watching it.
questionauthority
· 5 months ago
SICK, SHAMEFUL, DISGUSTING, DISTURBING AND A GROSS EMBARRASSMENT TO ISRAEL AND AMERICA!!!
BECOMING A NAZI TO DEFEAT NAZIS ONLY DEFEATS THE PURPOSE!!!
The conduct in the video is without question very offensive to anyone of reasonable sensibility. I understand why posting the video would be offensive to those who don't share the same attitude, but who do share the same religion.
Though I'm not Jewish, I don't doubt for a moment that the Holocaust happened. I understand and appreciate the gravity of the Jewish struggle.
I also think it's important for Jews to understand there is a growing perception that the arrogance in the video is representative of an actual underlying general Israeli arrogance. This perception, as well as criticism of Jews or Israeli foreign policy is not necessarily antisemitism, and does not warrant a visit from the JDL.
I know Israel's security and it's relationship with America is better left to those above my pay grade; however, I think it should be said that when the Holocaust is used to validate the same conduct of it's perpetrators then all significance is just lost.
RitornaVincitor
· 5 months ago
I joined the work force in 1964. Could anyone calculate what percentage of my taxes went to support Israel over the last 45 years? Because I'd like that money back. Thanks in advance.
ezpz
· 5 months ago
Probably a lot less than what you paid for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
RitornaVincitor
· 5 months ago
You know, I feel sorry for the Palestinians. 9/11 didn't change my feelings about them one bit.
ezpz
· 5 months ago
I don't understand your reply to my comment. It seems like a non sequitur.
I did not support either of the invasions, with the exception of Afghanistan in the very beginning, but not now. DEFINITELY not now.
My point was simply that the US doles out a lot of money to MANY countries for many reasons, invasions being a major expense to the taxpayers.
And the US also gives aid to the Palestinians too. Too bad Yasser Arafat hoarded it rather than use it to help his people with.
RitornaVincitor
· 5 months ago
Ah. I assumed you were evoking Muslim terrorism as a way to justify support of Israel. My misunderstanding. Thank you for not countering with the mistaken assumption that if someone does not support the policies of Israel then they are anti-Jewish. I've always had a very warm feeling for Jewish people in general. It's a pity how the wrongs of the past can lead us all to more misadventure.
Why are we giving this country $9 Billion+ every year?
markf217
· 5 months ago
Obama won the popular vote by a margin of 8 million votes. So their contempt and hatred is also for a majority of American voters. And I am one of the faggots they seem to dislike so very much. However, these kids are in a minority and they don't represent sane and compassionate American Jewish voices like Rabbi Lerner http://www.tikkun.org/ I don't think John was wrong to post this video. I don't believe in any form of censorship as a way to manipulate public perceptions about any group. I do think a lack of movement towards a two-state solution should result in the U.S. withdrawing financial support of Israel. Funny thing, on the Internet you can also find criticism of Obama as a "hawkish zionist." These kids don't speak for all Jews or all Israelis. Most mature people know that.
Asterix
· 5 months ago
Well, it's probably because we expect to get the money back when we're down on our luck...
kw
· 5 months ago
ha ha ha ha etc....
Nancy Varian
· 5 months ago
Well, not for these small children. Let's keep it in perspective.The are Americans behaving badly, I don't guess they get a dime of the $9 billion, etc.
angst
· 5 months ago
It's disgusting. However, I don't know how fair it is to take a group of drunken 20somethings and call their opinion and rantings view as "the sense of entitlement that the American Jewish community".
i'll grant you they suck and are ass-holes - i just wish they maybe they weren't wasted or as wasted.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
Being drunk, their veneer was off and I think we saw the true bigoted racists for what they really were. I'm sure we were also hearing their parent's viewpoints through their spawns.
catdance
· 5 months ago
Exactly. That kind of hate was either learned from their parents, or not squelched by their parents (which is the same thing).
catdance
· 5 months ago
I'd bet the ranch that no matter how drunk you got my 20something kids, that kind of vile, ignorant garbage wouldn't come out of their mouths.
shell
· 5 months ago
The only thing being sober would have done is temper what they CHOSE to say. They still think that way, no matter what. Have you ever been drunk? I sure have. And I never expressed a feeling I really didn't feel when sober.
My brother once knew a man for over 10 years. The man was very nice -- helped him a lot. But one night, they were at a bar, and the most vile, racist lines came out of his mouth. Did the booze do it? No. It just made him lose his inhibitions.
KISSman
· 5 months ago
The only way we will ever get two separate states in the region is if our president takes a tough stand and doesn't automatically side with Isreal on everything. If we're too busy cozying up with them, how are we ever going to get them to make some concessions in order to broker the deal?
Isreal is kinda like our unruly, defiant teenage child. They say what they want and make all these demands, but still depend on us like a parant. If President Obama pulled the plug of support on Isreal, let's see how long they'd last on their own.
kw
· 5 months ago
You nailed it.
Hey Bibi - no more cash for you!
See how quickly things change,
mole
caphillprof
· 5 months ago
It makes me wonder how Israel, and the entire Middle East, would be if the United States government suspended its subsidy of Israel.
Merlin
· 5 months ago
Total idiots! How many Billions do we give these idiots?
lilybart
· 5 months ago
May I have my 3 Billion dollars back please?
I am not sure they need our money.
kw
· 5 months ago
Can I have one of your billions??
Please??
he he
joelb53
· 5 months ago
I'm surprised at you, John. This is a bunch of drunken AMERICAN asshole Birthright kids, not Israelis. I almost got into a fight with one of these assholes on a return flight from Israel three years ago. They are a waste of life and an embarrassment to real human beings. I am so ashamed that you posted this garbage.
Go talk to real Israelis and real American Jews, not spoiled asshole white kids.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
So because you don't approve of them, they don't exist? They can't be a threat because the jews distance themselves? This is what Israel is paying to import, btw.
FuzzyandBlue
· 5 months ago
As stomach churning as this was to watch, my question is this: As dual citizens of the US and Israel, would these drunken privileged pr*cks have had to fulfill the mandatory military service stint that is required of every Israeli citizen? If so, doesn't that make their blatant threats against our prez all the more horrifyingly possible? Granted, any foaming racist as*hole with a weapon and a grudge who wants to kill or maim does not require military training, but doesn't a trained soldier with all the know how and govt training and hrs of weapons practice pose a more grave threat?
Heraclitus
· 5 months ago
Sigh.
These are the kids I grew up with. Bullies, fascists (even when they decry fascism applied to them), bullies.
Sometimes they get better. Mostly they don't.
They're an embarrassment to the Jews ... but no doubt they'd say that about me, who supports both Palestinians and Israelis. But neither of their governments.
Jay
· 5 months ago
John, I have been a supporter and avid reader of your site for years now, but this posting, hands down, the most irresponsible blogging you have ever done. Short of an apology to Jews everywhere with your complete understanding as to why this is a problem will result in my respect for you permanently lost. Do you not understand my outrage? Read on. The "Jews" in this video do not represent Jews everywhere, much less the statistics on Jews who support Obama. I am Jewish. I fully support Obama and the DNC. I am especially excited by Obama's approach to Middle East Peace. I believe Israel must be forced to make concessions to the Palestinians. But you, John, you post a video on your site claiming to represent Jews opinions towards Obama. You know full well this is dangerous. I could think of endless examples of why this is a problem if you still don't see it. Anti-semitism is an issue world wide. There are attacks on Jews world wide. This has gone on for thousands of years and continues to be a problem that is documented even today. A video like the one you posted is a one-sided, almost politically slanted video against Jews, in my humble opinion. The kids portrayed in the video do not represent the Jewish opinion -- even the American Jewish opinion -- at all. Why does this matter? Because stereotyping against Jews continues to be a problem, and videos like this only work to create a negative image. It is not responsible "reporting" or whatever you'd like to call it. Who are these kids? What schools are they from? Why are there no interviews with Jews that support Obama? I could create a video with select white christian conservatives that curse gay people. It could be very belligerent. I'm sure I could find people to talk on camera who, even kids, who think gays are going to hell. But the difference here is that white Christians do not face world wide persecution and violence because of their religion. Jews do and continue to face it to this day. Christians do not face attacks in the US and Europe for their religion. This DOES happen for Jews. Just recently a plot to blow up a synagogue in New York was broken up. It continues to this day. Promoting videos like this -- I think you know full well that this does not represent Jews. However, there are plenty of people who don't out there. This video is presented in a way that it is supposed to show how American Jews feel about Obama. So the interviewers found some bar in Israel with drunk American kids who are in the minority of Jewish opinion, and promotes this video as if this represents Jewish opinion of Obama. John, I really am outraged. Mostly because this is the type of thing that you would rail against if it was the other way around. How about if there was a video out there promoting gays who like little boys? There's enough misperception about being gay and a pedofiliac... we know this is a common right-wing talking point in churches. How would a video showing gays in San Francisco all portrayed as pedofiliacs make you feel? Would you be outraged? Would you be upset? Gays face real persecution in this country by others who do not have tolerance for them. Personally I am straight. I have a gay cousin. I fully support gay marriage and equal rights. I'm using this as an example to help you see why I am very upset with you posting this video on your site. Please consider taking the video down and apologizing for promoting it.
Sincerely, Jay
DCKit
· 5 months ago
Jay, You really need to calm down. No-one thinks that this represents the opinion of all Jews but you have to admit that it does represent the opinion of some, drunk or not. Admittedly, it is representative of a tiny, tiny portion, but there you are. I hope you are not suggesting that anything that presents Jews or Israel in a bad light should not be presented for that would be nothing short of censorship. Whether or not these youth were drunk or not is immaterial since people tend to show their true colors as such. And why on earth do you present the strawman of equating Gays with pedofiliacs (sic) (I presume you meant Paedophiliacs)? What does that have to do with this post? Nothing. Why don't you respond with a reasoned argument to the points made in the post instead of bringing this totally unrelated nonsense into the mix? By responding in this way I suggest that you have no reasoned rebuttal and that your support of gay rights is suspect. You are perpetuating an evil myth about gays. I hope you will consider withdrawing your post and apologizing to John for it.
PeteWa
· 5 months ago
quite possibly the best post in this thread.
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
"Admittedly, it is representative of a tiny, tiny portion, but there you are"
You don't know how many Jews it represents! I submit that it would be terribly surprising to know JUST HOW MANY Jews it represents!
kw
· 5 months ago
I have been to Dachau and smelled the death.
What the State of Israel is doing is criminal. These drunken teenagers reflect that reality. Screeching death to Obama leads to nowhere
Hate never wins - on all sides,
ezpz
· 5 months ago
Are you saying that only Jews hate Obama? or ALL Jews hate Obama?
I think they just arrested someone on a mission to k**l the president. I'm quite sure he was not Jewish.
This kind of stereotyping is irresponsible and potentially dangerous.
Crumbs
· 5 months ago
You need to blame and accuses these Jews, not John for posting FACT. Vent your anger toward your FELLOW Jews in the video. Shooting the messenger is cowardice.
Your post has only made the situation worse.
fredndallas
· 5 months ago
I understand your reaction and comments, Jay. I agree that the posting was red hot, contained some troubling generalizations not backed with much other than impression and was a little short on context, although I think John did (and has since) try to include as much perspective for interpretation as possible.
But it is what it is.
Unfortunate truth is that gay men have to face that we sometimes are framed and terribly condemned because there is such a thing as the National Man Boy Love Association, which many perceive to show that numerous, if not all, gay men are pedophiles. It's not fair or accurate but it happens.
From my limited personal experience with some well to do AIPAC supporting American Jewish families and their college-age children, this video is not far off the mark, I'm sad to say. In fact interestingly two of their youngsters are off to Israel right now for studies at Hebrew School.
This makes me feel that the youngsters in this video may indeed be representative of SOME American Jews -- yes I have already heard from my acquaintances (sober) angry condemnations of Obama and assertions that he is Muslim, but as yet no death threats.
Point being, I feel like the post and the video serve several valid purposes, but agree that they perhaps leave a bit much to interpretation, at least without the later updates.
The broader significance is that religious fundamentalism and radicalism, be it Muslim, Judaism or Christian feeds into world wide politics with very destructive influence. Certainly Judaism is not at all immune from that. In fact, I suspect that if the real and true story of AIPAC in American politics was ever totally revealed and understood, there would be a drastic backlash in this country.
I feel there is a dangerous increase in American antisemitism, a good deal of it frankly at the hands of the black Christian community and a counter balance of anti-black racism from some Jews. It is a dangerous brew for sure.
Like those of us in the GLBT community being similarly attacked (from the black Christian community, for example) we must develop some effective responses, but denying those aspects of our community that are ripe for negative exploitation won't get us anywhere, I don't think.
mirth
· 5 months ago
"Anti-semitism is an issue world wide."
True, Jay, but why do you think it is?
Crumbs
· 5 months ago
SO IS RACISM. What we have seen here is a prime example of Jewish racism.
You cannot turn it around and make it about "Anti-Semitism"
JEWS committed the heinous act here, not John.
mirth
· 5 months ago
"Anti-semitism is an issue world wide" is a quote from Jay's comment, to which I replied, asking Jay why he think this is.
I guess he doesn't have an answer.
I suspect s/he believes that anyone who condemns the barbarous actions of Israel is anti-semitic.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
I think the largest issue here is the seemingly interchangeable words Israeli and Jew. Much like Pro-Choice and Baby Murderer.
ezpz
· 5 months ago
What "heinous act" did they commit exactly?
They spoke trash and were drunk, not to mention stoopid, like not knowing who their own prime minister is. But what *acts* did they commit praytell?
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
The heinous act of Racism. Not to mention their repeated violent threats against the President of the United States.
ezpz
· 5 months ago
Yes, racism is offensive to say the least, and threats made to a president merit an investigation, regardless of who makes those threats.
But is racism and bigotry exclusive to any one ethnic group?
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
Irrelevent. We have examples of Jewish racism and bigotry today and nobody else.
You suggest they should "get off" because they are Jews?
NOBODY ELSE GETS OFF!
ezpz
· 5 months ago
HUH?
Where did I say "get off"?
Get off what?
ezpz
· 5 months ago
Thank you, Jay, for this great commentary. I feel as you do and share your outrage over it.
Ferdiad
· 5 months ago
Jay, you are absolutely correct that this video and post unfairly portrays a large group of people. However, that is exactly why it is a good post. We see countless examples of exactly that problem on TV, in the print media and on blogs. When we start balancing the unfair and generic portrayals maybe they will stop. Or perhaps they at least will start to be seen for what they are, unfair and bigoted casting of large groups of people. Did anyone else think that Borat's interview with the white-Christian college kids in the RV was unfair? It was and it is - but no one complained.
Crumbs
· 5 months ago
Screw these biggots. They can all burn in hell as far as I'm concerned.
Jeremy
· 5 months ago
Great good job you found a bunch of ignorant American Jews - all below the age of 22 - Fantastic - that proves once and for all Jews have no interest in a two state solution - right.
Get some perspective here folks- there are idiots on every side of the issue left and right - and this Issue is way more complicated than you can possibly cover in 3 minutes.
I am Jewish voted for Obama donate to the DNC go to Temple regularly and can promise those views on display are not the normal and we talk alot about politics.
ezpz
· 5 months ago
Thank you. These jerks don't typify Jews of any age group. In fact they sound more like the right wing nutsos, which are not all Jews.
It's not fair to try to use this as a stereotype of young Jews or Jews in general having a sense of entitlement. In fact, it can only fuel hatred.
You could find any group of jerks saying offensive things. Would that be an accurate representation of their ethnicity?
Steve_in_CNJ
· 5 months ago
probably would have been better to characterize them as just amercans studying abroad. the ugly american comes in all ages and faiths. a lot of the people settling on the west bank and saying it's "their property" are from frickin chicago. it's a serious problem that complicates american foreign policy. who cares if they are jewish?
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
I could care less regarding their ethnicity. However, anyone speaking to destabilize our nation by assinating our president poses a problem.
I wouldn't care of they were black w/white polka-dots, they're drunken spewings are worthy of investigation.
DonQ
· 5 months ago
Blacks and Jews marched arm-in-arm during the Civil Rights movement. How sad that things have fallen this far this fast, at least for these young folks.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
It's obvious these spoiled cretins haven't studied American History, or they would know that.
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
Butch1, evidently history means nothing to these idiots. Let the eat cake and repeat it.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
The only problem is that these cretins of privilege will never be in a position to be in "harm's way." It's their bravura and bad talking that gets us into trouble and it's the poor and middle classes who continue to "carry the can," and suffer for these pseudo-patriotic blowhards. "Bring it on," comes to mind.
whomod
· 5 months ago
Wow.
Watching that was equal to killing about the same number of brain cells that those idiots in the video killed by using too much alcohol and drugs.
Middle East peace? um... highly unlikely. You have both sides dug too deeply and too unyielding in their beliefs. Yeah, they may all have been just mouthing off like idiots because of drinking but those passions sounded real.
And this Obama hate. I'm amazed that it was young jews and not say, a meeting of the teabaggers or something..
That video was a downer of an eye opener.
nicho
· 5 months ago
At least now you know why the parents wanted to dump these kids as far away from home as possible.
I used to live in am urban student neighborhood where there were tons of kids like this. Mommy and Daddy gave them a new sports car and a platinum American Express card -- or two -- and let them run wild anywhere but Teaneck or Westchester. They were basically animals -- drunk, rowdy, arrogant, totally disrespectful of anyone. It was a very unpleasant environment. But this video wasn't surprising. I've seen this behavior first hand.
shell
· 5 months ago
Yeah, I know this type well. My son had a childhood friend who turned out like this when he got into high school. (My son doesn't have anything to do with him anymore.) They are now 24 years old and the boy's mother just gave him a car and a condo in SF -- anything as long as he left her alone.
Chris
· 5 months ago
I seriously question the motives of the people who made this video. Some of these drunks kids, most whom seem to be American, openly admitted they didn't even vote in the election! They sound like a bunch of republican conservatives with their 'Obama' muslim theories. It's disgraceful. I don't think it speaks for the majority of Israelis or American Jews. There are plenty of Jewish Obama supporters. Ever hear of JewsForObama.com ?
Jophus
· 5 months ago
I think we both get something else out of this altogether. You seem to be offended by the video because of what they say about Obama. I think most people are scared about the future of American/Israeli relations in the coming years. Regardless of the motivations that brought on this video, it shows what is going on. It happened. You can be mad or you can appreciate that you know this exists now.
MichaelC
· 5 months ago
Thanks for publicizing this, John. I suspect you're going to take a lot of heat.
Roci
· 5 months ago
You have a young man who remembers the tattoo number on her Grandmother's arm. Very Good. But he should also remember the people who put that mark there. They were racist as well. They were people who started out sounding a lot like these young people. Has this generation of young people, Israeli or American, forgotten so much of the Holocaust? And the young lady who did not know Netanyahu, and she a political science student? What are young people coming to?
Jophus
· 5 months ago
He should take a look at the ghetto in Israel, it is for the palestinians. That particular part was especially disturbing to me. How dare you pretend to care so much about your grandmothers issues, that you don't stop to understand what is going on before you use her memory to perpetuate hate.
Roci
· 5 months ago
Hate has never been an answer, nor will it ever be. If we follow faith, Arabs and Jews are two great nations, half brothers of the same father. If we follow common sense, there can be only one of two ends. Peace or obliteration. I say get the politicians out of the way, and let a new generation of *people* make their own peace. Left to themselves, people find they have more in common than anything which might divide them. Peace is hard. War is easy. So is the choice between hatred and understanding. One must choose to teach hate to another. Understanding comes only when hate is outgrown.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
Someone needs to do something quick. N. Korea has tested nuclear weapons, Iran has come out and said it seeks the bomb because N. Korea is a threat, and Israel is so aggressive because of Iran's direction. Then we have the wild card issue of Pakistan. Personally I'm a little freaked out, and the thought of nut jobs like the kids in these video's obtaining power from the powers that be terrify me.
Does anyone question why people in the middle east are so freaked out? On top of all that we have America in Pakistan, Iraq, and Afghanistan with previously expressed interest in Iran.
I wouldn't go anywhere with in 2000 miles of the middle east.
Valentine Frey
· 5 months ago
Yes, very disturbing, but only for people who are in the habit of thinking of Jews as a little smarter than other people. Otherwise not very surprising that a bunch of drunk kids will make fools of themselves.
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
They did more than make fools of themselves, they broke the law.
Besides they are not kids, they are adults and some will undoubtedly pay for threatening the life of the President of the United States.
Valentine Frey
· 5 months ago
Do you really want to live in a country hysterically insecure enough that they prosecute people for this kind of adolescent drunken posturing?
The Threats Against the President Act of 1917, which prohibits threatening the President in writings sent through the mail, was passed during the Wilson administration in the grotesque atmosphere of hysteria leading up to America’s entry into World War I. Although you seem to have an affinity for Wilson’s self-righteous Puritanism, I’m assuming that otherwise he’s not on your favorite presidents list. The Act’s legally unsanctioned extension to include verbal threats is another indicator of our banana republification.
Should we ever go further and pass a law against uttering inane generalizations like “all Jews are violent racists” on the grounds that such inane generalizations have often led to violence you too would be breaking the law – so what? - the law would be asinine.
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
I agree Father Time....and hopefully the secret service will pay them a visit upon their return home. Otherwise, let them STAY in Israel and face rocket attacks; and see what real terrorism is.
This was just ugly. They don't deserve to be citizens of the US. They have as much in common w/muslim extremist as any al qaeda operant does. They see his assination as well.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
I agree with the fact that they have as much in common with muslim and christian extremists, but you're a little too worked up.
Have Obama send the SS? Hitler sent the SS too when people spoke out about him. I'm afraid you are just as fascist as they are, at least in this statement.
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
According to law. The individuals here that made violent threats against The President of the United States MUST be investigated and arrested as opportunity arises. In federal prison, I'm sure there are some nice people there whom will teach them what the word "pussy" means.
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
You go, Father Time...I'm with ya when ya right!!!
Jophus
· 5 months ago
It is against the law in Israel?
sue
· 5 months ago
All groups of humans have some total idiots in them. Neither Jews, nor Muslims , nor Christians are immune from ignorance, stupidity or bigotry. Just as Elie Weisel said at Buchenwald, it seems we have failed to learn much from our experience. Hating these louts for their hatred justs perpetuates the problem. B'shalom.
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
Poorly said.
You statement Does Not diminish the fact that a crime has been committed by these Jews and must be pursued by law.
It also does not diminish the fact that these Jews are bigots and racists.
I guess these Jews have learned NOTHING from Buchenwald. For they have put themselves in the camp guard's uniforms by their own arrogant choice.
This is the country that we give billions in aid to every year and basically do their bidding when it comes to the middle east?
I say to hell with Israel. They have their own nuclear arsenal and their own military. We dont need to be their protector anymore.
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
I'm very much against what was said here. But, I don't agree w/just forsaking Israel, no more than I agree w/forsaking Darfur.
Chris From Maine
· 5 months ago
darfur doesnt have 300 nuclear missiles or a huge military.
Bo
· 5 months ago
I agree with Jay. Showing video of stupid drunk 20 year olds only shows that shooting (film) of fish in barrels is not limited to the right wing. How about posts that are not inflammatory but rather actually show something relevant?
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
Are we seeing here the subdued bigotry and violent racism harbored by all Jews but now their tongues are loosened by alcohol? How would we know? They are the sons and daughters of whom? Those we send money and material to support? Now they trash OUR generosity as they hold Duel Loyalty documents with another nation and THREATEN the life of OUR elected President??
Will they put on an Israeli military uniform and KILL OUR PEOPLE one day?
Do not play down the big mouths of these self proclaimed potential enemies of the United States!
Nancy Varian
· 5 months ago
Wow. Just ... wow. Why did you blog this? Some editorial context would be appropriate. All this shows is that drunk 20 year old kids are stupid where ever they are.
Show somejjournalistic integrity, man.
John Aravosis
· 5 months ago
Because I know Max, because he's a good reporter, and because the content was random - they weren't goading these guys into saying anything - and rather horrifying. They were Americans, apparently, not Israelis (though possibly dual nationals), and if any group of Americans were talking like that - and they were during the campaign - we'd report on them too. Now, having said that, people sometimes like to use anything critical of Israel in order to bash Israel and Jews - and as readers of this blog know, I'm not a big fan of people who bash Jews. But. I think this is newsworthy, and as Max's friend points out, these kids are apparently not out of the norm for American Jewish kids in Jerusalem. That fact troubles me.
Jay
· 5 months ago
John, the only person who claims these kids are "not out of the norm" is Max. And the only facts he has to back this up is his gut. If he truly wants to make a point, he should do a scientific poll, not cherry picked interviews.
Last Gallup poll before the election showed Jews voting for Obama over McCain by 74% to 22%. So somehow, Max found a portion the 22% of American Jewish Voters and chose to represent them in his video without any context of the greater support Obama has by American Jews. This video is completely dishonest, and I can't believe Max simply claims that this is "typical." They are clearly out of the norm, John. I would appreciate some facts here. You are promoting a double standard of "evidence" that Cheney and Bush used... apparently it is hard to see this when you are the one using "gut-checked facts."
Jophus
· 5 months ago
Try forming your own opinion and taking it from blogs and newspaper editorials.
I appreciate the behavior of finding something interesting and relative and posting it for viewers/readers to take from it what they like.
By demanding on certain things being covered in certain ways, is itself fascist.
Zorba
· 5 months ago
Sometimes res ipsa loquitur ("the thing speaks for itself").
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
It's PERFECT integrity and this should be national headlines.
susanmclaughlin
· 5 months ago
Thanks to the folks who posted this.
I thought I understood the passions of the Israelis but this shows me how wrong I am. The hatred and ignorance is stunning. I don't see how a people who have been persecuted can be so bigoted themselves. I would expect better from the younger generation.
How can peace possibly come with attitudes like this? I'm eager to hear others' perspectives on this.
shell
· 5 months ago
This is interesting -- about since THEY experienced discrimination, why wouldn't they understand? I saw this in CA during the prop. 8 mess. So many black (and other minority groups) voted FOR it. Why? My guess is that they think, "Aha! Someone ELSE is even lower on the totem pole than I am! Someone is lower than I am!"
I waited a LONG time to believe this, thinking it was so childish, few adults would "think" that way. But now I know it is true.
BeccaMorn
· 5 months ago
Great googly-moogly, what a bunch of self-absorbed, self-righteous ignorant bigoted gits.
MNUSA
· 5 months ago
Thank heaven my son and his friends are about this age otherwise I wouldn't have much hope for this generation. These offensive children of privilege are depressing.
Indigo
· 5 months ago
Not an auspicious omen.
Domo
· 5 months ago
What did they say after Obama's speech?
And no, this isn't just about Jewish Americans. It's about the absolutely corruptive influence entitlement has on all Americans that are so infected, crossing class, race, religion, education, etc.
It only gets magnified in the young.
PeteWa
· 5 months ago
How is this news to anyone? Entitled pricks, dual citizenship... bunch of crap. I say don't let these fucks back into the US, and cut off the funding to Israel already. We all know Israel already has nukes, and they out-gun Palestine 1000 to 1. Let them terrorize their neighbors on their own dime for a change.
planesdrifter
· 5 months ago
What a nice safe white enclave for these racist, hateful little spoiled bitches to express their feigned outrage. Let the duel citizens get back on US soil in the good old American melting pot mix (if they ever venture that far) and maybe someone will recognize their skanky foul mouth asses from this video. I'd like to be there to enjoy the comeuppance for their ignorant rants. Oh, and for the tough Israelis: keep in mind brothers & sisters, you don't want to piss daddy Obama off too much because he just might cut off your allowance.
skeeve
· 5 months ago
Why do we keep sending money to Israel? What are we getting out of the deal?
tas
· 5 months ago
There are a couple there that may want to reconsider coming back to the U.S. Some of what they said actually could result in visits from the FBI and/or Secret Service. But, where do you think they heard it from as they sure weren't smart enough to come up with any opinions on their own?
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
Several of them threatened our President.
ShirleyGoodnessanMercy
· 5 months ago
President Clinton was threatened openly by NC politicians but nothing ever came of that. Do you think our FBI and Secret Service only care when Republican presidents are threatened?
cowboyneok
· 5 months ago
These kids are also American citizens so they most definitely need to have the secret service on their asses. Can you imagine if Americans overseas had threatened the life of that idiot "Dubya" on foreign soil? Secret service would have gone ballistic on them.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
I'm beginning to think so, though, I would hope not.
7
· 5 months ago
at 2:35 "what are we, chopped liver?"
Even when they are drunken assholes, they still manage to play right into the stereotype every one expects
mike
· 5 months ago
Depressing
tbhull
· 5 months ago
I am not surpised most were dual citizens. The American-Israeli dual citizen crowd also includes Paul Wolfowitz, Douglas Feith and Richard Perle.
One thing thing these little privilieged pricks need to understand when they say that leave Israel alone is that it is quite doubful it would exist without an Allied victory in WWII.
PariahInMotion
· 5 months ago
Wow.
PariahInMotion
· 5 months ago
These people are idiots.
jdeisenberg
· 5 months ago
The video is clear proof of the slogan I saw on a baseball cap once: "Instant a--hole -- just add alcohol."
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
I excuse nothing because these people were "drinking".
Just as the Law will excuse nothing because they were "drinking", and, for good reason.
They are old enough to drink. They are old enough to suffer the repercussion of their actions.
I demand Justice!
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
Drunk men reveal their hearts....and tell no lies. They said what they MEANT to say.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
Right again!
PeteWa
· 5 months ago
the follow up post by Max was very good.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
What an ignorant bunch of drunks who need to show just how big of jerks they can be. The pomposity of youth, especially when they have been drinking knows no bounds. Perhaps, they should stay there and have to serve in the Israeli army like all Jews that come of age have to do in Israel. I wonder how long they would stay pompous when they see the reality of what war really is and does. Thankfully, these Jewish-Americans do not speak for Israel and they have been taught to flag-wave and wrap one's self in the flag of patriotism without respect to anyone. I would imagine they are looked down upon as vulgar and pampered by many Israelis. ( I had visions of how Europe views the typical Ugly American and that Valley Girl who spoke in this clip ) Hopefully, they will grow up and learn to think before spouting off with absolutely nothing but hyperbole and rhetoric. For goodness sake, they are in another country and speaking about their president. I saw nothing but spoiled, pampered, drunk young mob thinking fascists showing their stupidity.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
Well said, but I fear their growth in numbers. To be honest I don't agree with Israel, especially in December/January, but I don't know what the average Israeli citizen thinks.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
I think Israel is going to have to realize that there are going to be two states if there is ever going to be peace. They need to get out of the land that is considered Palestinian and allow ships and other countries who want to do business with them enter. This blockaid has caused much suffering. There will have to be borders protected on both sides and most likely, a DMZ in-between them. Palestine is going to have to join this world and quit the terrorist activities as well. With the help of other Arab countries, perhaps, a workable peace can be reached. Israel and Egypt were able to do it; it can happen again if Israel will stop the genecide and stay on their own land. I do think Israel wants peace as much as the Palestinians but an agreement and concessions are going to have to happen on both sides and that will mean Israel giving up more land. There is definitely not an easy solution to this but not doing anything is criminal.
Jophus
· 5 months ago
I agree but I don't know if I feel the palestinians are taking part in terrorist activities. I see them doing what they can to secure their land. I can understand someone saying that to Israel if they are seeking concessions though, if that is what you are doing.
Butch1
· 5 months ago
They could be getting help from other Arabs or from their perspective, "freedom fighters." I understand there are many tunnels that lead to areas where they can still get weapons. I realize that in their position, they must feel like there is nothing to lose but they need leadership that is not myopic and is able to see ahead what needs to be done. Right now, it's "tit for tat" and the constant vowing of revenge for every act committed by either side. They need to get beyond this if anything is going to work, in my opinion. ( I'm no diplomate but I did sleep at an Holiday Inn ) ;-)
nbfcaptain
· 5 months ago
Dude, Asher looks wrecked!
lise
· 5 months ago
obama has lied so he deserves everything that comes his way. he was a christian and he is a muslim he promised to support israel and now he push israel to the corner.he also lied to the american people in the broader sense.
Father_Time
· 5 months ago
Sorry, but the United States owes Israel nothing.
Rather Israel owes the United states Everything.
You can start paying us back starting with respect.
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
Lise, He's demonstrating his support FOR Israel by holding both parties accountable. Are you that short-sighted as well?
Gary SF
· 5 months ago
Wow - you need to get some psychiatric help because you are delusional. He pushed Israel to the corner by advocating for a two-state solution?
Jophus
· 5 months ago
Of course. These people think Israel can do no wrong. It looks suspiciously a lot like America did in 2001. Remember what we did when we had that much rage?
Lynn Dee
· 5 months ago
"He is a muslim."
Why not just wear a sign that reads: "I'm an idiot. Ignore me"?
Cathie
· 5 months ago
For my entire life my neighbours, co-workers and friends always stated their support for Israel and her right to exist. Since 911, I hear those same statements but followed by an ever growing “BUT”. If the comments by these young people represent the thoughts of American Jews and Israeli Jews, then I worry for the future of Israel and her people. Ultimately, people will do what they need to do to protect them. If that means cutting Israel loose then slowly, but surly that will happen. No one understands that more than Jews. It is time for moderate Jews across the world to stand up and stop the madness. It should begin with some straight talk from Jewish Elders to these young people that such loose talk is dangerous and counterproductive.
dula
· 5 months ago
They are obviously Neocon trash. I suspect these wanna be thugs will have a warm welcome when they return to NY.
Ferdiad
· 5 months ago
John, this is exactly the kind of balanced criticism that needs to take place on blogs like this and the media at large. Anyone who has visited Israel knows that this behavior is widespread. It may not be dominant, but it is widespread. For far too long the media John, this is exactly the kind of balanced criticism that needs to take place on blogs like this and the media at large. Anyone who has visited Israel knows that this behavior is widespread. It may not be dominant, but it is widespread. For far too long the media has shown videos like this from the Arab street and printed stories with a similar tone coming out Muslim institutions. However, they have failed to equally criticize the other side of the street. Even in these comments, the comments of these adults are dismissed as "just drunken kids," while the comments of extremist Arabs are displayed as the norm. Simply not the case - on either front.
Over the years I have seen numerous polls taken about Arab attitudes towards Jews or Arab feelings on Americans, but never do we see polls of Israeli opinion of Arabs or Muslims. The media and the political establishment constantly require the Palestinians to recognize Israel's right to exist, but never (until perhaps now) require that the Israeli's recognize the Palestinian right to exist. The double standards must end.
Case in point: the international world rightly condemns inflammatory statements by the leadership of Iran, but it fails to condemn similar comments by the leadership of Israel. Just recently, the highest ranks of Israeli leadership (Netanyahu himself) said to "think Amalek about Iran. For anyone that knows, Amalek was a nation in the bible where the Jews went and were charged to slaughter "all of Amalek's men, women and children and babes in arm." Israel just called for the inhalation of Iran and the world was silent. Responding with "Iran started it" is only deserving of debate with children similar to those in the video that is the subject of this comment.
I have lived in Israel. I have friends on all sides. Many of those on the side of finding a lasting peace have said that those in the right wing "support Israel at any cost" camp simply don't grasp the reality that more than 3 million Palestinians live side-by-side with them. They simply don't realize, or perhaps won't accept, that many of the towns in Israel used to have Arabic names. Debating what name a particular town had 5000 years ago is neither practical or useful. There is a cultural and religious affinity for the land on all sides of the debate. What is more useful is to recognize that, while it failed, a bill was recently introduced in Israel to make all citizens take an oath of loyalty. Yes it failed, but the fact it was even introduced is telling, particularly in light of the fact that the kids in this video felt comfortable making statements on video that the American President should be shot.
Max Blumenthal is dead on in his assessment. When I lived in Israel many of my Jewish friends would describe a sign they had for the American Jews that would come over and preach the "not an inch" doctrine. They would pat their chest pocket, which was meant to signal that the Americans were always checking to make sure their passport was still there. The idea is that most of the Sabra recognize that a lasting solution must be reached with the Palestinians and that most likely involves a two state solution that includes the swapping of land. The Americans that come over preach militant Zionism don't really care if their practices achieve peace because they can always go home to America.
I have no doubt in my mind that if both sides were free from militant outside influences (other Arab states on the Palestinian side and Zionist Americans on the Israeli side) that a lasting peace would have been reached long ago.
When you realize that most regular Arabs (whether in Palestine or Lebanon or elsewhere) are not full of hate, but rather full of fear, you will begin to understand this complex problem a little better. They see and hear things like the comments of these "drunken kids" on a regular basis. The problem is that these "drunken kids" control the most lethal military in the region and have the backing of the most powerful country in the world. Think Amalek.
I don't know if Obama can effectuate real change, but it should be one of his top priorities. Thus far, while it was only a speech, I think his approach is correct. Israel needs to know that America supports her 100% and she will continue to exist for eternity. However, the Palestinians need to be comforted that supporting Israel does not come unconditionally at their cost. America should now be a balanced mediator and will stand firm against either side that gets in the way of peace. Obama needs to call each sides bluff. For example, what is the harm in creating a Palestinian state? The entire world would be watching. If the Palestinian state made one wrong move the bluff would be called and it would be over. Similarly, Israel's bluff must be called. If they truly want peace they need to take actions to support it. Obama is right to take on this challenging task. The question is more whether the media and political establishment is ready to support him.
LuZenMyMnd
· 5 months ago
All I can say is "WOW"
They can't see the FULL picture. If Barack doesn't work w/the muslims, the extremist will make Israel toast while the "muslims" sit back and watch.
These kids need to stop being punks and recognize Israel has obligations to fill as well.
This was just ugly. Those kids should STAY in Israel. The one idiot didn't even know who Bibi was and she's a political science major who knows her shit. Hmmmph!
Jophus
· 5 months ago
This is ugly and your right, they can't see the full picture. They don't even know who the players are.
However, it isn't their fault. It is the society that brought them up so ignorant that the only source of information they have are advertising. That explains both the lopsided views, lack of knowledge, and the materialism they display so well.
Is there any question what so ever where the Arabs extremists got the idea that American culture was so materialistic that it would bring down the world? I don't agree with what they do, but I can definately see where they got their ideas.
shano
· 5 months ago
We need to stop giving Israel our illegal weapons-ie-white phosphorus and cluster bombs. And unmanned drones....all should be illegal and classified as crimes against humanity. Both countries need to stop using these WMD.
Love you Max, and John for posting this.
Raphael
· 5 months ago
Most of these people seem to be Americans. Their accents seem to be from the northeast U.S. So, what do these kids have to do with Israel? Are many of these kids racist? Sounds like it. Are many of them incredibly ignorant? Obviously so. (The political science student who doesn't know who Benjamin N. is should bow her head in shame. Of course, this will probably go on her permanent record.)
But why should these idiots matter more than any other idiot?
This will fade from memory pretty quickly to be replaced by the next fake controversy du jour.
Anon person
· 5 months ago
Why didn't Max ask what they thought of Obama's speech AFTER Obama gave it, vs. the night before? Granted, it may well have been the same performance, but it just seems like it would have made more sense.
Walrusq
· 5 months ago
The high majority of Jews in America voted for Obama. A higher percentage of Jews voted for Obama than white voters as a whole. And yet these are the American Jews he finds to represent everyone. I don't care what your explanations or blog reply whatever is, fuck the guy who made this video. He is obviously just as racist as these guys. What you don't think you can find some African Americans saying some absolutely terrible things? or some Muslims doing the same? you can but that doesnt represent a whole group of people, and that is what this video is meant to do. I am Jewish and American and I voted for Obama and I support him and I want peace and a 2 state solution in Israel. And I am not racist and I don't hate anyone. Fuck the guy who made this, I hope you get yours. And fuck the people in this video. I would love to meet one of these fuckers in this video, they are terrible poeple and I would love to kick any of their asses.
All Comments
That crap about "grandma being in Auschwitz" and then turning around and spewing hate just like a Nazi. Betcha Grandma is REAL proud you little fool! This is what happens when kids aren't taught history.
Why do we absolutely, unconditionally back Israel 1,000%?????
To protect these innocent children of David???
So they can send their (our) tanks to fight the rock-throwing Palestinians???
There are good people and bad people in EVERY culture, class, country and religion. People need to have their human rights respected no matter who they are.
I doubt seriously these obviously uneducated fools should be held up as the standard-bearer for all American Jews.
The most disturbing part of this is hearing them utter such racist garbage. It wasn't that long ago when these young people would have been called that and worse. How sad for them.
You're right. They'll just run AIPAC when they grow up.
To be partying in Israel and doing aliyah (pilgrimage), you can bet that most, if not all, are the sons and daughters of doctors, lawyers, bankers, etc -- basically Jews cut from the same cloth as Eric Cantor. They may be attributing their anti-Obama bile to his perceived tough stance on Israel, but I'll bet they're just regurgitating their mommy and daddy's fears of him coming to raise their taxes.
They're not Jewish assholes, they're Fox News Republican assholes who happen to be Jewish (a very microscopic per cent of the overall Jewish population).
Its a mistake to underestimate racism. Its a mistake to underestimate threats against the President. Its a mistake to underestimate bigotry and I REFUSE to underestimate evil hearts of these arrogant young people on behalf of the Jewish American Population. Rather I look to the Jewish American population TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS ASAP!
Facts are ugly things.
Mix many parts alcohol, combine with over priveleged ignorant white jewish children who never had to struggle a day in their lives.. add 20 yrs of brainwashing, combine with overt bigotry. Shake well and serve.....
This is why there will never be world peace. These american assholes have grown up working for nothing, striving for nothing and aspiring only to get drunk and as one put it "get pussy" .. and we wonder why the rest of the world hates us?
Perfect. I agree.
(I'm pretty sure that's how a Jewisy buddy of mine described it...but I won't defend it too strenuously if someone tells me I'm f.o.s.)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Law_of_Return#Elig...
But here's a question: Does this represent some significant strain of thought in Israel? Or is it as meaningful as filming during spring break in Ft. Lauderdale and trying to extrapolate from that, politically?
Many Jews are scared now because Obama is taking the mideast seriously. Change is scary and painful especially when you have been raised in an atmosphere of fear (they were probably very young on 9/11 and were indoctrinated to be scared all the time).
But they are not representative of American or Israeli Jews. And Birthright Israel is not a brainwashing trip. Most of us who lead these trips are from liberal academic backgrounds.
These are stupid little children behaving like idiots. Some of these drunken children couldn't even identify the prime minister by name.
Take it down or leave it up, but don't assume it represents anything different than any other drunken college party.
These are not "children" they are bigots and racist adults and they have threatened the President of the United States with, “being Shot"!
They belong in prison, Period, and, you can bet your butt this has been reported.
One other thing. You can still be a Christian and believe there are TWO SIDES to this issue. Just sayin'...
Intrestingly enough, the only place I've ever been 'gay bashed' is the river walk on the chicago river. I think this is just an anomaly though.
I definitely relate to hearing the word nigger multiple times when I was busy making Indiana vote blue for the first time in decades.
http://www.keithboykin.com/arch/2002/09/18/prot...
http://jasmynecannick.typepad.com/jasmynecannic...
http://www.banshirleyqliquor.typepad.com/
Are you kidding? You must be. I hope so. If not, you're as bad as s/he is.
"I don't think the drag queen Shirley Q. Public who satirically makes fun of herself, a gay drag queen, as much as she makes fun of other minorities is in the same league as fascist hate. "
From your link:
"And I’ll add, we’ll just laugh at the fat white gay man who is passing judgment on Black women with his racist act."
So, go ahead, and laugh at the fat white gay man instead of what you consider his racist act. Its all a big joke anyway...
On the other hand, what those kids were saying was not a joke and I don't remember the drag queen "Shirley Q. Liquor" ever threatening violence against anyone. There is a difference. Shirley Q. Liquor does more than a characterization of a stereotypical southern black lady, she also does a white trash lady, as well. Its pretty much equal opportunity drag comedy. She makes fun of EVERYTHING...
Its my opinion you are really reaching by trying to elevate what that drag queen does in her comedy act to this particular argument over drunken violent hate speech and whether it should be applied as a dominant Jewish American attitude in Israel.
Are you black? Are you a woman? I don't think so.
Oh and as for this: "whether it should be applied as a dominant Jewish American attitude in Israel"--that's YOUR projection, not mine. I never said anything AT ALL about "dominant Jewish American attitudes in Israel." I said don't defend or take up for these racist jerks. You've been doing that for more than a day now, and smearing Americans in red states to do so. Stop it.
I haven't been defending these kids, but I have been careful to say it isn't indicative of all Jewish Americans attitudes, and that you can get the same kind of hate speech out of drunken right wingers here in the United States. You seem to think because I said there are SOME that do this that I am saying EVERYONE does it. I am not.
I did NOT defend the racist jerks. You decided I was defending them. If you read some of my other remarks, you would know I suggested they should have the Secret Service visit them for threatening our President.
How about we call a truce at this point?
As far as Shirley Q. Liquor is concerned. I'll start taking drag queens making fun of black women more seriously when everyone starts taking straight black men making fun of gay men more seriously...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXf6oYafHtQ
I'd say if you start going after Shirley Q. Liquor then you'd better be protesting the likes of all the comedians who blatantly make fun of gay stereotypes all the time. I don't need a lecture on taking satirical comedy seriously when I don't even have the right to marry my partner, or keep a job because I happen to be gay. All I am saying is Shirley Q. Liquor and this hate speech over in Israel isn't even in the same league. I'd put Shirley Q. more in the same league as the straight black guys making fun of gay men on "Living Color." If I can laugh with them making fun of gay men, like me, then I don't see why Shirley Q. Liquor should be seen as something any more harmful than all the countless comedians who do gay stereotypical satire.
In fact his post starts out with:
"...I am horrified and disgusted by this behavior. "
Did you miss that?
His point was that these kids in the video do not accurately represent the Jewish population at large.
I agree with him and don't see where he 'defended' or 'covered' for anyone.
They know what they're saying, drunk or not. Don't defend them. They need to take responsibility for their racist, hateful comments against our president, who openly stood up for Israel in his comments in Egypt. They need to take responsibility for their racist statements against Black people, against Palestinians, against other Jews and anyone who challenges their extremist viewpoints, and don't need someone covering for them.
http://www.gallup.com/poll/111424/Obama-Winning...
My disgust here is that the behavior and comments in this video is being promoted on this site as being "typical" when it couldn't be farther from the truth. Strange how this site's slogan is "A Great Nation Deserves The Truth." Somehow its authenticity is beginning to feel similar to another famous slogan, "Fair and Balanced"...
They claim they know about the holocaust. No they don't. They hear their grandparents talk about it. And then they describe Obama as a "nigger." Just as they are screaming about themselves being killed because of their "race." Are they morons?
They need to grow up. The bimbo who shrieked about Obama and then didn't even know who Netanyahu was -- priceless. Spoiled children.
yeah, that part got me too. Repeating the same FOX news crap and then asserting her intelligence. I had a friend like that back in the 90's who graduated from Cal State LB and thought that the Presidential State Of The Union Address that Clinton gave a few weeks after the Lewisnsky scandal broke, which I happened to be watching at the time, was the trial of Bill Clinton. I then informed her that it was the SOTU Address and she didn't have a clue what that was.
Gotta love American higher education. Make you proficient in 1 field and leave you dumb as doorknobs in every other facet of life.
No, it didn't make you an expert on, say, math, but it made sure you at least had rudimentary knowledge of it. (Which is more than I had before.)
Today, when my children attended college, it had changed. Now they have tons of CHOICES! Good, eh? You can take geology rather than chemistry. Geology is good, but it isn't chemistry.
If you DO know a little about many subjects, hang onto your hats -- it will only get worse. America has been dumbed down for a LONG time.
His answer: "Because we (Jews) are assholes." He simply shrugged his shoulders, laughed self-consciously...and then repeated "We are assholes. It's the truth."
I've never been able to shake that memory/explanation.
btw- he was a very 'solid' Jew, not like another buddy of ours who was merely 'technically' a Jew - in name only, never practiced his faith/heritage.
That wasn't the song the chorus was singing when a very drunk Mel Gibson made allegedly anti-Semitic statements.
And then we have these American geniuses showing their American smarts and babbling nonsense about how he doesn't support Israel.
The right wing in this country has dumbed people down quite well I think.
BECOMING A NAZI TO DEFEAT NAZIS ONLY DEFEATS THE PURPOSE!!!
The conduct in the video is without question very offensive to anyone of reasonable sensibility. I understand why posting the video would be offensive to those who don't share the same attitude, but who do share the same religion.
Though I'm not Jewish, I don't doubt for a moment that the Holocaust happened. I understand and appreciate the gravity of the Jewish struggle.
I also think it's important for Jews to understand there is a growing perception that the arrogance in the video is representative of an actual underlying general Israeli arrogance. This perception, as well as criticism of Jews or Israeli foreign policy is not necessarily antisemitism, and does not warrant a visit from the JDL.
I know Israel's security and it's relationship with America is better left to those above my pay grade; however, I think it should be said that when the Holocaust is used to validate the same conduct of it's perpetrators then all significance is just lost.
It seems like a non sequitur.
I did not support either of the invasions, with the exception of Afghanistan in the very beginning, but not now. DEFINITELY not now.
My point was simply that the US doles out a lot of money to MANY countries for many reasons, invasions being a major expense to the taxpayers.
And the US also gives aid to the Palestinians too.
Too bad Yasser Arafat hoarded it rather than use it to help his people with.
http://www.columbia.edu/~fdc/pace/
http://www.tikkun.org/
I don't think John was wrong to post this video. I don't believe in any form of censorship as a way to manipulate public perceptions about any group. I do think a lack of movement towards a two-state solution should result in the U.S. withdrawing financial support of Israel. Funny thing, on the Internet you can also find criticism of Obama as a "hawkish zionist." These kids don't speak for all Jews or all Israelis. Most mature people know that.
"the sense of entitlement that the American Jewish community".
i'll grant you they suck and are ass-holes - i just wish they maybe they weren't wasted or as wasted.
My brother once knew a man for over 10 years. The man was very nice -- helped him a lot. But one night, they were at a bar, and the most vile, racist lines came out of his mouth. Did the booze do it? No. It just made him lose his inhibitions.
Isreal is kinda like our unruly, defiant teenage child. They say what they want and make all these demands, but still depend on us like a parant. If President Obama pulled the plug of support on Isreal, let's see how long they'd last on their own.
Hey Bibi - no more cash for you!
See how quickly things change,
mole
I am not sure they need our money.
Please??
he he
Go talk to real Israelis and real American Jews, not spoiled asshole white kids.
As dual citizens of the US and Israel, would these drunken privileged pr*cks have had to fulfill the mandatory military service stint that is required of every Israeli citizen?
If so, doesn't that make their blatant threats against our prez all the more horrifyingly possible?
Granted, any foaming racist as*hole with a weapon and a grudge who wants to kill or maim does not require military training, but doesn't a trained soldier with all the know how and govt training and hrs of weapons practice pose a more grave threat?
These are the kids I grew up with. Bullies, fascists (even when they decry fascism applied to them), bullies.
Sometimes they get better. Mostly they don't.
They're an embarrassment to the Jews ... but no doubt they'd say that about me, who supports both Palestinians and Israelis. But neither of their governments.
I have been a supporter and avid reader of your site for years now, but this posting, hands down, the most irresponsible blogging you have ever done. Short of an apology to Jews everywhere with your complete understanding as to why this is a problem will result in my respect for you permanently lost. Do you not understand my outrage? Read on.
The "Jews" in this video do not represent Jews everywhere, much less the statistics on Jews who support Obama. I am Jewish. I fully support Obama and the DNC. I am especially excited by Obama's approach to Middle East Peace. I believe Israel must be forced to make concessions to the Palestinians. But you, John, you post a video on your site claiming to represent Jews opinions towards Obama. You know full well this is dangerous. I could think of endless examples of why this is a problem if you still don't see it.
Anti-semitism is an issue world wide. There are attacks on Jews world wide. This has gone on for thousands of years and continues to be a problem that is documented even today. A video like the one you posted is a one-sided, almost politically slanted video against Jews, in my humble opinion. The kids portrayed in the video do not represent the Jewish opinion -- even the American Jewish opinion -- at all. Why does this matter? Because stereotyping against Jews continues to be a problem, and videos like this only work to create a negative image. It is not responsible "reporting" or whatever you'd like to call it. Who are these kids? What schools are they from? Why are there no interviews with Jews that support Obama?
I could create a video with select white christian conservatives that curse gay people. It could be very belligerent. I'm sure I could find people to talk on camera who, even kids, who think gays are going to hell. But the difference here is that white Christians do not face world wide persecution and violence because of their religion. Jews do and continue to face it to this day. Christians do not face attacks in the US and Europe for their religion. This DOES happen for Jews. Just recently a plot to blow up a synagogue in New York was broken up. It continues to this day.
Promoting videos like this -- I think you know full well that this does not represent Jews. However, there are plenty of people who don't out there. This video is presented in a way that it is supposed to show how American Jews feel about Obama. So the interviewers found some bar in Israel with drunk American kids who are in the minority of Jewish opinion, and promotes this video as if this represents Jewish opinion of Obama.
John, I really am outraged. Mostly because this is the type of thing that you would rail against if it was the other way around. How about if there was a video out there promoting gays who like little boys? There's enough misperception about being gay and a pedofiliac... we know this is a common right-wing talking point in churches. How would a video showing gays in San Francisco all portrayed as pedofiliacs make you feel? Would you be outraged? Would you be upset? Gays face real persecution in this country by others who do not have tolerance for them.
Personally I am straight. I have a gay cousin. I fully support gay marriage and equal rights. I'm using this as an example to help you see why I am very upset with you posting this video on your site. Please consider taking the video down and apologizing for promoting it.
Sincerely,
Jay
You really need to calm down. No-one thinks that this represents the opinion of all Jews but you have to admit that it does represent the opinion of some, drunk or not. Admittedly, it is representative of a tiny, tiny portion, but there you are. I hope you are not suggesting that anything that presents Jews or Israel in a bad light should not be presented for that would be nothing short of censorship. Whether or not these youth were drunk or not is immaterial since people tend to show their true colors as such. And why on earth do you present the strawman of equating Gays with pedofiliacs (sic) (I presume you meant Paedophiliacs)? What does that have to do with this post? Nothing. Why don't you respond with a reasoned argument to the points made in the post instead of bringing this totally unrelated nonsense into the mix? By responding in this way I suggest that you have no reasoned rebuttal and that your support of gay rights is suspect. You are perpetuating an evil myth about gays. I hope you will consider withdrawing your post and apologizing to John for it.
You don't know how many Jews it represents! I submit that it would be terribly surprising to know JUST HOW MANY Jews it represents!
What the State of Israel is doing is criminal. These drunken teenagers reflect that reality. Screeching death to Obama leads to nowhere
Hate never wins - on all sides,
or ALL Jews hate Obama?
I think they just arrested someone on a mission to k**l the president. I'm quite sure he was not Jewish.
This kind of stereotyping is irresponsible and potentially dangerous.
Your post has only made the situation worse.
But it is what it is.
Unfortunate truth is that gay men have to face that we sometimes are framed and terribly condemned because there is such a thing as the National Man Boy Love Association, which many perceive to show that numerous, if not all, gay men are pedophiles. It's not fair or accurate but it happens.
From my limited personal experience with some well to do AIPAC supporting American Jewish families and their college-age children, this video is not far off the mark, I'm sad to say. In fact interestingly two of their youngsters are off to Israel right now for studies at Hebrew School.
This makes me feel that the youngsters in this video may indeed be representative of SOME American Jews -- yes I have already heard from my acquaintances (sober) angry condemnations of Obama and assertions that he is Muslim, but as yet no death threats.
Point being, I feel like the post and the video serve several valid purposes, but agree that they perhaps leave a bit much to interpretation, at least without the later updates.
The broader significance is that religious fundamentalism and radicalism, be it Muslim, Judaism or Christian feeds into world wide politics with very destructive influence. Certainly Judaism is not at all immune from that. In fact, I suspect that if the real and true story of AIPAC in American politics was ever totally revealed and understood, there would be a drastic backlash in this country.
I feel there is a dangerous increase in American antisemitism, a good deal of it frankly at the hands of the black Christian community and a counter balance of anti-black racism from some Jews. It is a dangerous brew for sure.
Like those of us in the GLBT community being similarly attacked (from the black Christian community, for example) we must develop some effective responses, but denying those aspects of our community that are ripe for negative exploitation won't get us anywhere, I don't think.
True, Jay, but why do you think it is?
You cannot turn it around and make it about "Anti-Semitism"
JEWS committed the heinous act here, not John.
I guess he doesn't have an answer.
I suspect s/he believes that anyone who condemns the barbarous actions of Israel is anti-semitic.
They spoke trash and were drunk, not to mention stoopid, like not knowing who their own prime minister is. But what *acts* did they commit praytell?
But is racism and bigotry exclusive to any one ethnic group?
You suggest they should "get off" because they are Jews?
NOBODY ELSE GETS OFF!
Where did I say "get off"?
Get off what?
I feel as you do and share your outrage over it.
Get some perspective here folks- there are idiots on every side of the issue left and right - and this Issue is way more complicated than you can possibly cover in 3 minutes.
I am Jewish voted for Obama donate to the DNC go to Temple regularly and can promise those views on display are not the normal and we talk alot about politics.
These jerks don't typify Jews of any age group.
In fact they sound more like the right wing nutsos, which are not all Jews.
It's not fair to try to use this as a stereotype of young Jews or Jews in general having a sense of entitlement.
In fact, it can only fuel hatred.
You could find any group of jerks saying offensive things.
Would that be an accurate representation of their ethnicity?
I wouldn't care of they were black w/white polka-dots, they're drunken spewings are worthy of investigation.
Watching that was equal to killing about the same number of brain cells that those idiots in the video killed by using too much alcohol and drugs.
Middle East peace? um... highly unlikely. You have both sides dug too deeply and too unyielding in their beliefs. Yeah, they may all have been just mouthing off like idiots because of drinking but those passions sounded real.
And this Obama hate. I'm amazed that it was young jews and not say, a meeting of the teabaggers or something..
That video was a downer of an eye opener.
I used to live in am urban student neighborhood where there were tons of kids like this. Mommy and Daddy gave them a new sports car and a platinum American Express card -- or two -- and let them run wild anywhere but Teaneck or Westchester. They were basically animals -- drunk, rowdy, arrogant, totally disrespectful of anyone. It was a very unpleasant environment. But this video wasn't surprising. I've seen this behavior first hand.
Does anyone question why people in the middle east are so freaked out? On top of all that we have America in Pakistan, Iraq, and Afghanistan with previously expressed interest in Iran.
I wouldn't go anywhere with in 2000 miles of the middle east.
Besides they are not kids, they are adults and some will undoubtedly pay for threatening the life of the President of the United States.
The Threats Against the President Act of 1917, which prohibits threatening the President in writings sent through the mail, was passed during the Wilson administration in the grotesque atmosphere of hysteria leading up to America’s entry into World War I. Although you seem to have an affinity for Wilson’s self-righteous Puritanism, I’m assuming that otherwise he’s not on your favorite presidents list. The Act’s legally unsanctioned extension to include verbal threats is another indicator of our banana republification.
Should we ever go further and pass a law against uttering inane generalizations like “all Jews are violent racists” on the grounds that such inane generalizations have often led to violence you too would be breaking the law – so what? - the law would be asinine.
This was just ugly. They don't deserve to be citizens of the US. They have as much in common w/muslim extremist as any al qaeda operant does. They see his assination as well.
Have Obama send the SS? Hitler sent the SS too when people spoke out about him. I'm afraid you are just as fascist as they are, at least in this statement.
You statement Does Not diminish the fact that a crime has been committed by these Jews and must be pursued by law.
It also does not diminish the fact that these Jews are bigots and racists.
I guess these Jews have learned NOTHING from Buchenwald. For they have put themselves in the camp guard's uniforms by their own arrogant choice.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedagogy_of_the_Op...
I say to hell with Israel. They have their own nuclear arsenal and their own military. We dont need to be their protector anymore.
Will they put on an Israeli military uniform and KILL OUR PEOPLE one day?
Do not play down the big mouths of these self proclaimed potential enemies of the United States!
Show somejjournalistic integrity, man.
Last Gallup poll before the election showed Jews voting for Obama over McCain by 74% to 22%. So somehow, Max found a portion the 22% of American Jewish Voters and chose to represent them in his video without any context of the greater support Obama has by American Jews. This video is completely dishonest, and I can't believe Max simply claims that this is "typical." They are clearly out of the norm, John. I would appreciate some facts here. You are promoting a double standard of "evidence" that Cheney and Bush used... apparently it is hard to see this when you are the one using "gut-checked facts."
I appreciate the behavior of finding something interesting and relative and posting it for viewers/readers to take from it what they like.
By demanding on certain things being covered in certain ways, is itself fascist.
I thought I understood the passions of the Israelis but this shows me how wrong I am. The hatred and ignorance is stunning. I don't see how a people who have been persecuted can be so bigoted themselves. I would expect better from the younger generation.
How can peace possibly come with attitudes like this? I'm eager to hear others' perspectives on this.
I waited a LONG time to believe this, thinking it was so childish, few adults would "think" that way. But now I know it is true.
And no, this isn't just about Jewish Americans. It's about the absolutely corruptive influence entitlement has on all Americans that are so infected, crossing class, race, religion, education, etc.
It only gets magnified in the young.
Entitled pricks, dual citizenship... bunch of crap.
I say don't let these fucks back into the US, and cut off the funding to Israel already.
We all know Israel already has nukes, and they out-gun Palestine 1000 to 1.
Let them terrorize their neighbors on their own dime for a change.
"what are we, chopped liver?"
Even when they are drunken assholes, they still manage to play right into the stereotype every one expects
One thing thing these little privilieged pricks need to understand when they say that leave Israel alone is that it is quite doubful it would exist without an Allied victory in WWII.
Just as the Law will excuse nothing because they were "drinking", and, for good reason.
They are old enough to drink. They are old enough to suffer the repercussion of their actions.
I demand Justice!
he was a christian and he is a muslim he promised to support israel and now he push israel to the corner.he also lied to the american people in the broader sense.
Rather Israel owes the United states Everything.
You can start paying us back starting with respect.
Why not just wear a sign that reads: "I'm an idiot. Ignore me"?
Over the years I have seen numerous polls taken about Arab attitudes towards Jews or Arab feelings on Americans, but never do we see polls of Israeli opinion of Arabs or Muslims. The media and the political establishment constantly require the Palestinians to recognize Israel's right to exist, but never (until perhaps now) require that the Israeli's recognize the Palestinian right to exist. The double standards must end.
Case in point: the international world rightly condemns inflammatory statements by the leadership of Iran, but it fails to condemn similar comments by the leadership of Israel. Just recently, the highest ranks of Israeli leadership (Netanyahu himself) said to "think Amalek about Iran. For anyone that knows, Amalek was a nation in the bible where the Jews went and were charged to slaughter "all of Amalek's men, women and children and babes in arm." Israel just called for the inhalation of Iran and the world was silent. Responding with "Iran started it" is only deserving of debate with children similar to those in the video that is the subject of this comment.
I have lived in Israel. I have friends on all sides. Many of those on the side of finding a lasting peace have said that those in the right wing "support Israel at any cost" camp simply don't grasp the reality that more than 3 million Palestinians live side-by-side with them. They simply don't realize, or perhaps won't accept, that many of the towns in Israel used to have Arabic names. Debating what name a particular town had 5000 years ago is neither practical or useful. There is a cultural and religious affinity for the land on all sides of the debate. What is more useful is to recognize that, while it failed, a bill was recently introduced in Israel to make all citizens take an oath of loyalty. Yes it failed, but the fact it was even introduced is telling, particularly in light of the fact that the kids in this video felt comfortable making statements on video that the American President should be shot.
Max Blumenthal is dead on in his assessment. When I lived in Israel many of my Jewish friends would describe a sign they had for the American Jews that would come over and preach the "not an inch" doctrine. They would pat their chest pocket, which was meant to signal that the Americans were always checking to make sure their passport was still there. The idea is that most of the Sabra recognize that a lasting solution must be reached with the Palestinians and that most likely involves a two state solution that includes the swapping of land. The Americans that come over preach militant Zionism don't really care if their practices achieve peace because they can always go home to America.
I have no doubt in my mind that if both sides were free from militant outside influences (other Arab states on the Palestinian side and Zionist Americans on the Israeli side) that a lasting peace would have been reached long ago.
When you realize that most regular Arabs (whether in Palestine or Lebanon or elsewhere) are not full of hate, but rather full of fear, you will begin to understand this complex problem a little better. They see and hear things like the comments of these "drunken kids" on a regular basis. The problem is that these "drunken kids" control the most lethal military in the region and have the backing of the most powerful country in the world. Think Amalek.
I don't know if Obama can effectuate real change, but it should be one of his top priorities. Thus far, while it was only a speech, I think his approach is correct. Israel needs to know that America supports her 100% and she will continue to exist for eternity. However, the Palestinians need to be comforted that supporting Israel does not come unconditionally at their cost. America should now be a balanced mediator and will stand firm against either side that gets in the way of peace. Obama needs to call each sides bluff. For example, what is the harm in creating a Palestinian state? The entire world would be watching. If the Palestinian state made one wrong move the bluff would be called and it would be over. Similarly, Israel's bluff must be called. If they truly want peace they need to take actions to support it. Obama is right to take on this challenging task. The question is more whether the media and political establishment is ready to support him.
They can't see the FULL picture. If Barack doesn't work w/the muslims, the extremist will make Israel toast while the "muslims" sit back and watch.
These kids need to stop being punks and recognize Israel has obligations to fill as well.
This was just ugly. Those kids should STAY in Israel. The one idiot didn't even know who Bibi was and she's a political science major who knows her shit. Hmmmph!
However, it isn't their fault. It is the society that brought them up so ignorant that the only source of information they have are advertising. That explains both the lopsided views, lack of knowledge, and the materialism they display so well.
Is there any question what so ever where the Arabs extremists got the idea that American culture was so materialistic that it would bring down the world? I don't agree with what they do, but I can definately see where they got their ideas.
Both countries need to stop using these WMD.
Love you Max, and John for posting this.
But why should these idiots matter more than any other idiot?
This will fade from memory pretty quickly to be replaced by the next fake controversy du jour.