There’s a growing problem within our own ranks — a denigration dynamic. Some armed Jews have begun to scorn those they perceive as “unwilling to defend themselves.” It’s a seductive posture, but a destructive one. It divides rather than strengthens.
Let’s be clear: denigrating Jews as a whole has never served us. The irony here is sharp — many of the Jews being criticized are quietly training, are acquiring firearms, are preparing. They simply don’t feel the need to post photos at the range or broadcast what’s in their safe. Jews Can Shoot, founded in 2013, is just one of many networks, instructors, and communities that have been doing this work beneath the radar for years.
The impulse to shame comes from somewhere real — trauma. Since 2023, we’ve witnessed synagogue attacks, campus harassment, and open threats. Antisemitism isn’t an abstraction; 91% of Jews now say they worry about it. For some, the sight of fellow Jews still hesitant to arm themselves feels like watching history repeat. Pacifist rhetoric, in that light, feels like betrayal.
But we can’t fight fear with contempt. The loudest critics are usually the ones already confident, already armed, already secure. Their scorn, however justified it may feel, risks alienating those who are only beginning to wake up. Shame doesn’t mobilize. It freezes.
The truth is, Jews are arming — thoughtfully, quietly, and seriously. They’re not shouting it from rooftops, and that’s not cowardice. That’s prudence. Survival has never depended on noise — it’s depended on readiness.
If we want a strong, prepared Jewish community, the answer isn’t mockery. It’s mentorship. It’s outreach. It’s education. The mission isn’t to shame the “unready.” The mission is to make sure none of us ever are again.
Doris Wise, Jews Can Shoot and Stay-Armed.com
