US Jews urges solidarity against virus-generated xenophobia

Washington, Feb 27 (IANS) The Jewish community in the US has voiced its support in an open letter for "their friends in the Chinese American and Chinese communities" against xenophobia over the novel coronavirus outbreak.David Bernstein, president and CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), delivered the letter signed by 87 Jewish organizations across America to Chinese Ambassador to the US Cui Tiankai on Wednesday, reports Xinhua news agency.In the letter, the Jewish community expressed its concern about the rising xenophobia aimed at Chinese people in the US and beyond."We know that in such times, concern can quickly turn into hysteria, which can lead to scapegoating. We pledge to help ensure that Chinese people feel safe and supported, and to combat attacks and stereotyping on social media," read the letter."We know from history, ours and yours, that such fearmongering can be devastating," the letter added.Cui expressed his appreciation of the solidarity shown by the community at this critical moment, noting that both the Chinese nation and the Jewish nation have gone through hardships and supported each other in history.The JCPA represents 125 local Jewish federations and community relations councils and 17 national Jewish agencies in the US.
--IANS ksk/