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Do you feel yourself an American first, or a Jew first?
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<p>This is not a simple question to answer. It assumes that the two identities cannot co-exist comfortably, and that one must be "first". Post-JFK, do Catholics consider themselves Americans first, or Catholics first? Are Baptists Americans first, or Baptists first? Are Irish-Americans Americans first, or Irish first? The question implies not only that Judaism is more than a religion, but that it is also a political affiliation in the same way as national identity is. Is there any reason that I cannot be equally loyal to America, to my God, and to the Jewish People?</p>
<p>Answering the question also depends in large respects to the prevailing political climate. In the 1930's, Germany's Jews considered themselves Germans first, and being Jewish was completely secondary. That changed dramatically and these Jews were astounded and confused suddenly to find themselves adrift. While someone on this board believes that we "left that behind" with Hitler, I and most Jews that I know cannot be nearly as sanguine. That's why we watch carefully for any signs of the erosion of our right to be both Americans and Jews. You all know the story of the lobster - when put in a pot of warm water which slowly heats up, the lobster never notices the changes until it's dead. German Jews were those lobsters; American Jews have learned that lesson and are more vigilant.</p>
<p>That being said, to answer the question - As long as America agrees that I am an American, I am one - happy and proud, the child of immigrants (my parents, not my ancestors), patriotic, who does not take America and its blessings for granted. I am also a Jew, which, in the America that I love, is not in conflict. If the country turned more anti-Semitic (and to keep this thread less political, I will accept the "if"), I would first try to reverse the trend, and then, once America makes the decision that I cannot be both American and Jewish, I would do what was necessary to ensure my survival and the survival of my family and my people. Would I leave? Without the US, Israel may not exist. I don't know - if this bastion of civil rights and liberties turned against the Jewish people, where would we go?</p>