When Fear and Hate Rise: How we Confront Racism Together

In this episode of The Pluralist Podcast, Orly Erez-Likhovski and Rabbi Josh Weinberg speak with Samah Darwish, Director of IRAC’s Racism Crisis Center, and Yolanda Savage-Narva, Vice President for Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the Union for Reform Judaism. At a time marked by war in Israel and growing fear within Jewish communities in the United States, this conversation explores how racism, extremism, and polarization are reshaping our societies. From legal advocacy and policy change to public awareness and shared society work, Samah and Yolanda offer a grounded, values-driven perspective on what it takes to confront racism today. This is a cross-ocean conversation about responsibility, leadership, and the challenge of holding onto democratic values even in moments of fear.IN THIS EPISODEHow racism is rising in Israel and the United States during times of crisisThe work of IRAC’s Racism Crisis Center supporting victims and shaping policyWhy fear and trauma can deepen division — and how to respondWhere hope comes from: small victories, shared society, and everyday actionAbout the guests:Samah Darwish is the Director of IRAC’s Racism Crisis Center, leading efforts to combat racism in Israel through legal advocacy, policy engagement, and public education. Yolanda Savage-Narva is Vice President for Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the Union for Reform Judaism, where she leads work on racial justice and belonging in North American Jewish life.