Survey: Millions of American Jews Now Hide Their Identity as the US Marks Its 250th Anniversary

As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, a new survey released by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) shows that one of the communities that has helped build the nation since its founding is facing a pervasive and escalating threat. Jews have been part of American life since before the founding of the United States, arriving in New Amsterdam in 1654 and counted among the merchants, soldiers, and citizens who supported the Revolution.

The comprehensive study, commissioned by CAM's Antisemitism Research Center (ARC), finds that a majority of Jewish Americans — 57% — experienced antisemitism in the year preceding the survey, equivalent to approximately 3.3 million Jewish adults alongside an estimated 250,000 Jewish children living in affected households. The threat is also visible in changing behavior: 38% said they now hide things that identify them as Jewish, 32% have avoided posting anything online that would identify them as Jewish, and 23% — about 1.2 million adults — said they had skipped Jewish events or observances out of fear.

The survey also found broad Jewish communal support for the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism after reading it. 71% of those polled said the definition accurately described antisemitism, and more than two-thirds said it should be adopted by institutions. Only 4% opposed the definition, with just 1% in strong opposition.

(INN/VFI News)

“Our Heavenly Father, we lift up the Jewish community of the United States before You and ask that You strengthen every heart that has grown afraid to be recognized as Jewish. Surround them with Your protection so that no one needs to hide who they are, and raise up leaders, institutions, and neighbors who will stand with them against hatred. We pray that antisemitism would be exposed and defeated wherever it takes root, and that Your people would walk openly and proudly in the heritage You have given them. In Yeshua's Name we pray.”