The Fragility of Diaspora Jewish Life and South African Zionism

Coming from a South African Jewish experience, the fragility of diaspora Jewish life and intense Zionism shaped the understanding of the Jewish national project in Israel. South African Jews prioritized their national allegiance to Israel, considering it the only place where Jews can truly be at home. However, the speaker also observed that Jewish fears and story often justified or sidestepped oppressive actions in South Africa. This conflicted with the idea of Jewish victimhood and motivated admiration for Jews in the African National Congress who fought for equality and freedom for all.