The Unseen Child Trauma from Antisemitism

Since October 7, many American and Israeli-born Jews — especially students in K–12 schools — have faced traumatic invalidation: the dismissal of their pain and lived experiences. This isn’t just an unfortunate side effect of rising antisemitism — it’s one of the ways antisemitism actively operates. Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, an expert in trauma-informed interventions, joins Jeremy Burton to explore how antisemitism causes harm and denies that harm, deepening trauma.They also discuss how trauma can be a driving force in radicalization. Through her work at Parents4Peace — an organization that includes former extremists such as a neo-Nazi and a jihadist who now work to prevent violence — Dr. Bar-Halpern has seen firsthand how unaddressed trauma can push individuals toward extremist ideologies. What does evidence-based research tell us about breaking these cycles of harm before they take root?Mental health is a key part of this work and a JCRC legislative priority. Addressing trauma — both individual and communal — is essential as we confront antisemitism. This includes ensuring that K–12 schools become trauma-informed spaces where Jewish students feel safe and supported. How can the Special Commission on Combatting Antisemitism help make that a reality?This conversation unpacks what’s happening, why it matters, and how we can push back against both antisemitism and the psychological wounds it inflicts.