I wanted to know of some practical things I could do in the face of discrimination. This led to the finding of the 5D’s of Bystander Intervention. This timely guide suggests effective and safe ways to intervene when we witness any type of verbal injustice, oppression, or harassment of another. Here is a quick summary of the 5D’s of Bystander Intervention:

1. DISTRACT. Interrupt the exchange by casually engaging the targeted person. Some examples would be to ask for the time, directions, or purposely drop items in front of the person.

2. DELEGATE. If possible, work with others. While some are distracting, have others go and find help from an authority figure. (Note: before calling 911, ask the targeted person if they want you to).

3. DOCUMENT. If safe to do so, take video of the altercation. Try to note the day and time and film significant landmarks that identify the location. After, let the targeted person know that you filmed the altercation and ask the person what they would like you to do with the video.

4. DELAY. Check in with the targeted person after the incident. Ask if they are ok and let them know you do not condone the incident. If you know of a resource that could help them further, offer it to them.

5. DIRECT. If you feel safe to confront the harasser, do so using direct, firm, and clear language. Avoid arguing or escalating the situation.

While I found this information extremely useful, simple, and doable, it unfortunately cannot help when unsolicited screeds are spewed onto our front steps, as in the case with the antisemitic flyers here in Napa. And while I do not wish to give much attention to this cowardly, unjust act, the reporting of such actions is doing something. It will serve to acknowledge the pain of our Jewish brothers and sisters and let them know that the majority of our community adamantly oppose these ideas and beliefs, held only by a few. 

So, while some useful tools against discrimination exist, the real solution lies with us. We are the most powerful tool in the toolbox. Joining together with our Jewish neighbors, and all our neighbors, is the only way to truly end antisemitism and bigotry toward any group. 

Standing up for one another, having each other’s backs, speaking out against injustices, seeking understanding and compassion, being open and willing to learn the truth about those “different” from us… this is what is needed to create a shift in consciousness to promote lasting change. As we join together, we create change not only here in Napa, but the power of our collective intentions for peace, harmony, and inclusion will serve to change and heal the world. 

Ways to Support Napa’s Jewish Community

• Get support and ideas through the many resources at sites such as Right To Be ___ , the ADL, The Jewish News of Northern California, and Good Good Good.

• Go through Bystander Training yourself, or set it up for your organization. There are also trainings geared specifically for children. Request that our schools incorporate this training into their curriculum.

• Watch a short animation about the 5D’s of Bystander Intervention on You Tube, or find a link to a podcast about it here.

• For a full training on antisemitism from a framework of collective liberation, contact PARCEO at antisemitismcurriculum.org.

• Have Prime Video? Check out the award-winning film, Israelism, to gain a better understanding of the history and current situation between Israel and Palestine. This film, directed by American Jews, not only seeks to fight against antisemitism, but also fights for equality and peace between the Palestinian people and Israel. Watch the trailer.

• Understand that being critical of Israeli’s government and military is not “antisemitism” in and of itself. One can be an active, supportive ally to the Jewish community, and yet not support the actions of the Israeli government and military.

• Have a brutally honest conversation with yourself to check whether your thoughts, words, or actions may unknowingly be perpetuating stigmas or cliches about the Jewish culture and population. Change starts with oneself. 

• Remember that bigotry is more of a reflection of who is casting it, and less about who it is actually cast upon.

• Are you in a position to host a community forum where Napa residents can voice concerns about discrimination and prejudice? Napa needs a safe place that encourages cultural understanding with open dialogue that fosters empathy and compassion between diverse groups.

• Reach out to Congregation Beth Shalom and ask what you can do to support the Jewish community here in Napa.

• Donate to and consider joining your favorite groups and movements that support inclusion.

• Help bring those spewing hatred to justice. Napa police are asking that anyone with information on the distribution of the flyers to email Officer Kane Elliott at kelliott@cityofnapa.org or Detective Romero at iromero@cityofnapa.org.

• Be brave, take safe action, and do something.